UNICEF Jamaica is encouraging mothers to breastfeed their babies as data on breastfeeding shows that Jamaica’s rates of exclusive breastfeeding are critically low.

In a statement released today (September 19)  Mariko Kagoshima, UNICEF Country Representative, noted that, with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic still evident, “the importance of protecting breastfeeding as the best possible start in life is most critical”.

According to Kagoshima, data from the last Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) shows that Jamaican mothers on average exclusively breastfeed for the first three weeks.

This means that alternatives such as formula are used after these three weeks which is deemed insufficient.

Only 24 per cent of Jamaican women exclusively breastfeed their babies up to the recommended six months.

“Breast milk has no substitute. Exclusive breastfeeding in the first six months of life has been identified as the foundation for achieving optimal health and development throughout the life course,” said Kagoshima.

As such, this year’s theme for National Breastfeeding week (September 18 – September 24) is ‘Step up for breastfeeding: Educate and Support’.

Under the theme, there is a call for a team effort between government and members of society to protect, promote and support breastfeeding through policies and programmes.

 Kagoshima noted that “inadequate breastfeeding practices and the premature introduction of inappropriate foods are impacting the early childhood years in many ways, including facilitating high rates of overweight and obesity in children”.

The benefits of breastfeeding include boosting a baby’s immune system, supporting healthy brain development, protection against respiratory diseases and formation of a bond between mother and child.

In recognition of this, the Ministry of Health and Wellness has been working to increase the rate of exclusive breastfeeding.

Over the last two years, the ministry has provided ongoing counselling for motherd and caregivers, despite challenges posed by the pandemic, said Kagoshima.

 The Mandeville Regional Hospital also received certification to become the sixth baby-friendly hospital in Jamaica.

“The protection, promotion and support of breastfeeding remains critically important to the attainment of a child’s right to the highest attainable standard of health,” said Kagoshima.

“We must all continue to work together, to step up to uphold this right for the benefit of Jamaican infants and children and generations to come.”