World Breastfeeding Week is an annual event held during the first week of August to emphasize the importance of breast milk for babies. This year’s theme, “Breastfeeding Support For All,” focuses on addressing the challenges mothers face during their lactation period.
Supported by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated from August 1st to 7th in more than 120 countries. The campaign honors breastfeeding mothers in all their diversity throughout their breastfeeding journeys, highlighting how families, societies, and health workers can support them.
The week aims to underscore the significant benefits of breastfeeding for the well-being of babies, as well as to promote maternal health. Dr. Ologunore Olufisayo, a pediatrician from UCH Ibadan, elaborated on the health benefits of breastfeeding for both babies and mothers.
Breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure child health and survival. Despite this, fewer than half of infants under six months old are exclusively breastfed. Health practitioners advocate for exclusive breastfeeding, recommending it as essential for enhancing the baby’s health and development.
The campaign during World Breastfeeding Week serves to remind and educate the public about the critical role of breastfeeding in child and maternal health, encouraging more mothers to practice exclusive breastfeeding for the betterment of their children’s futures.
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