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UNICEF and the Ministry of Health celebrate World Breastfeeding Week August 1-7, 2009

PODGORICA, July 31, 2009 - On the occasion of the World Breasteeding Week (August 1-7, 2009) Dr Miodrag Radunovic, Minister of Health, Ms Noala Skinner, UNICEF Montenegro Representative and Dr Veselinka Djurisic, pedriatician from the Clinical Centre of Montenegro, held a press conference in the Government’s Bureau for Information in Podgorica, on July 31, 2009.

‘’Exclusive breastfeeding rates in Montenegro are only 19% and only every fourth mother breastfeeds her baby within the first hour after birth." said Dr Miodrag Radunovic, Minister of Health at the press conference. On the occasion of World Breastfeeding Week, he appealed to Montenegrin professionals in the health system, parents of infants and future parents, to give priority to breastfeeding for their children.

Ms Noala Skinner, UNICEF Montenegro Representative said that the latest research, from June 2009, illustrates that the overwhelming majority of guardians are aware of the importance of breastfeeding, but there is still need to communicate a key message that will lead to a significant increase in exclusive breastfeeding rates in Montenegro.

‘’In the first six months, breastmilk is the most complete form of the nutrition an infant can have. Please don’t doubt this. It is a fact.’’

‘’In the first six months, breastmilk is the most complete form of the nutrition an infant can have. Please don’t doubt this. It is a fact.’’ Ms. Skinner emphasized.

Dr Veselinka Djurisic, pediatrician from the Clinical Centre of Montenegro explained the many benefits of breast milk compared to formula milk. She concluded that breast milk provides all of the nutrients, vitamins and minerals an infant needs for growth for the first six months, and no other liquids or food are needed. In addition, breast milk carries antibodies from the mother that help combat disease. Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life reduces infant mortality linked to common childhood illnesses and under-nutrition. It also contributes to the health of mothers, and creates a bond between the mother and child. Every mother can breastfeed, if given appropriate support, advice and encouragement, as well as practical assistance to resolve any problems.

This year, under the theme: ‘’Breastfeeding: A Vital Emergency Response. Are you ready?” World Breastfeeding Week calls for greater support to mothers in infant feeding in order to draw their attention to the vital role that breastfeeding plays in emergencies.

Children are the most vulnerable in emergencies – child mortality can soar from 2 to 70 times higher than average due to diarrhea, respiratory illness and malnutrition. Breastfeeding is a life saving intervention and protection is greatest for the youngest infants. Even in non-emergency settings, non-breastfed babies under 2 months of age are six times more likely to die.

Recent scientific studies have found that education and support for mothers significantly extend the number of months that mothers breastfeed and is especially helpful in promoting exclusive breastfeeding. Other studies have shown that counseling and support in health facilities have led to increases in the number of mothers who initiate breastfeeding within the first hour of birth.

Globally, UNICEF is working with its partners and Governments to ensure the provision of increased support for breastfeeding mothers, including by health workers, counselors, mother-to-mother support groups, employers, relief workers in emergencies, legislators, family and community social networks

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UNICEF and the Ministry of Health celebrate the World Breastfeeding Week August 1-7, 2009

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