More breastfeeding could help lower SA’s healthcare costs
Breastfeeding exclusively will lift children’s chances of survival and their cognitive capability in low-and middle-income countries, enabling more children to earn better as adults
Evidence suggests that breastfeeding nurtures national economies, benefits the long-term development of societies and lowers healthcare costs. It is one of the smartest investments that a mother, a family and a community can make. Breastfeeding is vital for providing every child with the healthiest start to life. It is a baby’s first "vaccine" and is the best source of nutrition. It bolsters brain development and reduces mortality — it is projected that breastfeeding can save up to 520,000 children’s lives in the next 10 years, globally. In low-and middle-income countries, improved rates of exclusive breastfeeding will increase children’s chances of survival and their cognitive capability, thus enabling more children to earn better as adults. This year’s theme for world breastfeeding week is Sustaining Breastfeeding Together, because all of us — governments, decision-makers, development partners, professional bodies, academia, media, advocates and other stakeholders — must work toge...
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