LLLI Center for Breastfeeding Information

Journal Abstract of the Month for November 2003

"Can we make hospitals and the community baby friendly?"

Authors: C.W. Binns and J.A. Scott

Acta Paediatr 2003-6;92:646-47

With the knowledge of the devastating impact of human milk substitutes, significant changes have had to be taken. It is two decades since the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes has been implemented, followed by the Innocenti Declaration and the Baby-friendly Hospital Iniative. By the end of 1999, 15,000 hospitals in 136 countries have earned the designation of "baby friendly."

In Germany, the efforts toward widespread acceptance of "Baby Friendly" status has impacted short-term improvements, but also has shown a gain in duration of breastfeeding.

As hospitals continue the trend to shorter hospitalization for childbirth, we have the challenge to establish community support and make all of our hospitals and communities "baby and breastfeeding friendly"

This article will be categorized using the following keywords: Promotion, BFHI, Duration, Hospital Protocols, Germany