The first of a series of two reports published by The Lancet has revealed the extent that breast feeding could benefit mothers, babies and the global economy.
Around the world breast feeding rates vary dramatically, significantly, higher-income countries having much lower rates. One of the lowest levels being in the UK where at 12 months less than 1% of infants are breastfed.
Modelling conducted details how substantial some of these benefits could be. Putting some significant figures in the report, including that scaling up breast feeding to almost universal level could:
- Prevent 823,000 annual deaths of children below the age of 5
- Prevent 20,000 annual deaths from breast cancer
- Save the UK economy around $29.5 million a year
Health benefits of breast feeding gives protection against breast cancer and may also help protect against ovarian cancer and diabetes
Pictured opposite is our breast feeding relaxation audio which has helped many women establish a relaxed environment to feed their babies.
