Despite the well-documented benefits of breastfeeding worldwide, only 39% of children under six months received it exclusively in 2012.
It is a global fact, and it is a hopeless figure, about which we learned more details when talking about the stagnation in breastfeeding rates. One of the main reasons is the lack of a supportive environment for breastfeeding mothers, although it is worth mentioning that there are some countries responsible for reducing the 'average'.
Among them Tunisia, where rates had been reduced to 6.2% before 2010, Nigeria that has not improved in many years, or Somalia, Chad and South AfricaAt the other extreme, countries with support policies and global programs that reach all communities have been able to increase their breastfeeding rates significantly.
Cambodia has had remarkable success in increasing rates of exclusive breastfeeding, from 11.7% of infants under six months in 2000 to a very high level of 74% in 2010. Togo and Zambia also increased rates of between 10 and 20%, respectively, in the late 1990s, to more than 60% in 2000.
These examples reflect insufficient global leadership in breastfeeding, as remains undervalued with respect to its importance in the child's life. There needs to be greater prioritization and commitment, specific policies and greater consensus to involve the world in promoting this vital and life-saving practice
It draws attention to China, which recently attracted media attention due to its strong demand for consumption of powdered milk for babies causing shortages in other countries, has an exclusive breastfeeding rate of only 28%.
However, in an attempt to increase low rates in the most populous country in the world, the 10m2 love campaign has been launched to locate, register, certify and publicize breastfeeding rooms in order to raise awareness and support to breastfeeding.
On the website any organization can register breastfeeding rooms that adhere to international standards for staff or customers who adhere to international standards. A mobile phone application is being developed to map the location of all facilities.
Is essential create an enabling environment for breastfeeding to become the normIt is not enough that it is the most natural way of feeding babies, it is not enough that it is an act that identifies us as mammals.
Trained health professionals, breastfeeding group support, awareness / information actions, and protective laws and policies are needed, particularly around the marketing of breast milk substitutes and maternity leave.
