LLLI Center for Breastfeeding Information

Journal Abstract of the Month for July 2001

Pediatrics 01-03;107(3):584-88

Title: "Physicians and Breastfeeding Promotion in the United States: A Call for Action"

Author: Barbara L. Philipp, Anne Merewood and Susan O'Brien.

This "Call to Action" documents the gap in knowledge and training which is reported in a survey of active fellows in the AAP, where 65% recommended exclusive breastfeeding for the first month after birth and only 37% recommended breastfeeding for one year. Good background information is provided on the international efforts to promote breastfeeding, including some of the history of the WHO Code and the Baby Friendly Initiative. The authors document the efforts made in having Boston Medical Center become Baby Friendly, and the resulting increases in initiation rates (57% in 1995 to 78% in 1998). These health care providers are challenging pediatricians to read their "Ten Action Steps for Pediatricians to Encourage, Support, and Promote Breastfeeding," which is in keeping with the "Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding." Point #10: Enlighten insurance companies about the benefits of breast milk and the resulting monetary savings. Complain when insurance companies deny breast pumps for all babies. Inform hospital administrators that BFHI is a welcome addition for the community and an effective marketing strategy to attract more patients.

These authors find it unusual that a manufacturer of infant formula is the only organization which tracks breastfeeding initiation and duration, and informs us that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recently held a conference to begin the process for regular data collection of breastfeeding rates in the U.S.