News Release - Only half of local mothers breastfeeding their babies at 6 months, study reports.

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News Release For Immediate Release

October 1, 2004

Only half of local mothers breastfeeding their babies at 6 months, study reports.

OWED SOUND--The Public Health Unit released new data today that shows mothers in Grey-Bruce want to breastfeed. The study found that 89% of mothers start out breastfeeding, but after three months, only 61% are still feeding their baby this way. At six months the number drops to 51% and by nine months, 29% are still breastfeeding.

Health Canada, the Canadian Pediatric Society and the Dietitians of Canada all recommend exclusive breastfeeding for at least the first four months of life and beyond. The World Health Organization further encourages breastfeeding for at least the first six months.

According to Public Health Nurse, Dana Aitken-Howes, "There were two major reasons mothers stated as to why they stopped breastfeeding their infant. The first was that someone suggested they stop and the second was that they did not feel comfortable breastfeeding in public. What women need most of all is the support of their families and friends, healthcare providers and community so that they know what they are doing is important."

While October 1st - 7th celebrates breastfeeding around the world, in the Grey-Bruce area World Breastfeeding Week highlights the need for more education, discussion and support among families, healthcare providers and the public. The theme for this year is, "Exclusive Breastfeeding, The Gold Standard: Safe, Sound and Sustainable."

Sarah Ellis, Manager of Reproductive and Child Health Programs, stresses the benefits of breastfeeding. "Research has shown that breast milk is superior to any other option for infant feeding because it provides the necessary elements for normal growth and development. Breast milk also protects babies from a wide range of infections and disease."

Ellis further explains that research is showing formula-fed babies are at a higher risk for asthma, cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease compared to breastfed babies. There is also evidence showing higher I.Q scores and lower obesity rates in children and adults who were breastfed as infants. What makes breastfeeding most attractive is that breast milk is free, always fresh and ready to serve when baby gets hungry.

Aitken adds, "New moms need to be prepared for the physical challenges they may face while learning to breastfeed their baby. Lactation support is available in our community through local birthing centres and Public Health."

To learn more about breastfeeding and breastfeeding support, log on to http://www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca/Family/Breastfeeding or call Public Health at 376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456.

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Attachment:
Photo of Heidi and Owen Davey. Owen is Heidi's third child and was breastfed for 11 months.

For more information:

HEAD OFFICE: 920 First Avenue West, Owen Sound, Ontario N4K 4K5 www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca

OWEN SOUND
(519) 376-9420
1-800-263-3456
Fax (519) 376-0605