The National Nutrition Survey 2014 has shown an increase on exclusive breastfeeding for the 0‑6months old with 51% compared to 40% in 2004 and this is a significant achievement in promoting breastfeeding of babies.
Assistant Minister for Health and Medical Services Alex O’Connor highlighted this at the launch of National Nutrition Month and World Breastfeeding Week at the Bua Subdivisional Hospital in Labasa today.
He also awarded the Bua Subdivisional Hospital staff with the national 'Baby Friendly' Hospital award for achieving high standards of breastfeeding promotion, protection and support.
O’Connor says that the early years of a child's life provide a unique window of opportunity for establishing and ensuring a lifelong health patterns in their adulthood.
He says babies with a history of breastfeeding have fewer infections and illnesses throughout childhood and they also have a significantly lower risk of developing heart diseases and obesity much later in life.
The Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative is part of the National Strategic Plan of the Ministry of Health which aims to reduce malnutrition among new borns through breastfeeding promotion and support for maternal, infant and child health.
