Week-long drive to promote breastfeeding

Campaign starting today aims to discourage use of formula milk

RAWALPINDI:

The Rawalpindi District Health Authority (DHA) is all set to hold ‘breastfeeding week’ starting today [Monday] with the aim of addressing the 40 per cent rise in cancer cases among women who do not breastfeed their children.

Punjab Caretaker Health Minister Dr Jamal Nasir will inaugurate proceedings at a ceremony at the DHA office. The campaign aims to educate the public about the benefits of breastfeeding on both maternal and child health. The observance of breastfeeding week will extend across basic health units (BHUs) and rural health centres, including the teaching hospitals in all seven sub-districts of Rawalpindi.

During the awareness campaign, women will be advised to feed their children rather than opting for formula milk via brief sessions. This approach ensures enhanced child health and immunity against diseases via maternal nourishment. Similarly, mothers themselves benefit by reducing the risk of illnesses, particularly breast cancer.

Dr Naveed Akhter Malik, the coordinator of the maternal & child health programme at the authority, said that the activities and interventions would be geared towards discouraging the use of formula milk.

Moreover, Dr Malik announced that DHA has successfully introduced dedicated breastfeeding corners within all basic health units and rural health centres.

Additionally, Dr Malik emphasised the concern for working mothers who often resort to formula milk due to their professional life. As a solution, the DHA is collaborating with both the government and the private sector to establish daycare centres at various locations.

Utilising this provision, mothers can nourish their children while safeguarding them from the use of formula milk, he added. Dr Malik further explained that, in observance of the breastfeeding week, a distinct supply of enriched vitamins and improved dietary offerings will be extended to women.

This initiative would not only promote women's personal nutrition but also contribute to enhancing the well-being of their child. Furthermore, educational institutions, healthcare centres and schools will host dedicated awareness sessions focusing on breastfeeding.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 28^th, 2023.