The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has issued a warning that delaying breastfeeding by 2-23 hours after birth can increase the risk of a baby dying within the first 28 days of life by 40 percent.
This was highlighted by a UNICEF Nutrition Specialist, Mrs. Philomena Irene, during the 2024 Media Dialogue Journalists as Change Agents.
In her remarks on the topic “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All,” Irene highlighted the essential importance of exclusive breastfeeding in enhancing a baby’s immune system. She noted, “Breast milk is rich in antibodies that safeguard infants against infections and illnesses.”
Irene stated that if 90 percent of mothers breastfed their babies exclusively for the first six months, around 13 percent of child deaths could potentially be prevented. She highlighted the significance of support from grandmothers and fathers in encouraging exclusive breastfeeding at home, recommending that men take an active part in childcare and household responsibilities to give mothers the opportunity to breastfeed.
She emphasized that men should discuss the importance of breastfeeding exclusively for the baby’s first six months with family members, such as grandmothers. She also recommended that fathers make sure the baby’s diet incorporates milk, eggs, and green or orange fruits and vegetables every four days, while consistently monitoring the breastfeeding plan’s progress with their wives.
