LLLI
Center for Breastfeeding Information
Journal Abstract of the Month for July 2001
Pediatrics 01-03;107(3):584-88
Title: "Physicians and Breastfeeding Promotion in the United States: A Call
for Action"
Author: Barbara L. Philipp, Anne Merewood and Susan O'Brien.
This "Call to Action" documents the gap in knowledge and
training which is reported in a survey of active fellows in the AAP, where
65% recommended exclusive breastfeeding for the first month after birth and
only 37% recommended breastfeeding for one year. Good background information
is provided on the international efforts to promote breastfeeding, including
some of the history of the WHO Code and the Baby Friendly Initiative. The
authors document the efforts made in having Boston Medical Center become
Baby Friendly, and the resulting increases in initiation rates (57% in 1995
to 78% in 1998). These health care providers are challenging pediatricians
to read their "Ten Action Steps for Pediatricians to Encourage,
Support, and Promote Breastfeeding," which is in keeping with the
"Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding." Point #10: Enlighten
insurance companies about the benefits of breast milk and the resulting
monetary savings. Complain when insurance companies deny breast pumps for
all babies. Inform hospital administrators that BFHI is a welcome addition
for the community and an effective marketing strategy to attract more
patients.
These authors find it unusual that a manufacturer of infant formula is
the only organization which tracks breastfeeding initiation and duration,
and informs us that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has
recently held a conference to begin the process for regular data collection
of breastfeeding rates in the U.S.
Page last edited Sun Oct 14 09:34:27 UTC 2007.
