Waba forum gathers breastfeeding experts

from around the world

     From September 24 to 28 the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action bought together breastfeeding researchers, activists and clinicians from all over the world. Over 300 delegates from close to 70 countries reaffirmed their commitment to work towards a breastfeeding culture, remove obstacles for mothers, and monitor and work for the implementation of mechanisms that protect and enhance breastfeeding.

    The global breastfeeding community met in Arusha, Tanzania, Africa, to discuss and enhance knowledge and draw up action plans around a number of critical and vital concerns affecting infant and young child health.

    Workshops and plenary sessions afforded stimulating sessions led by some of the world’s top experts in infant and young child feeding.

Topics included:

Ø      mother-to-mother support

Ø      the status of women and breastfeeding

Ø      the impact of globalization

Ø      the capacity to implement supportive breastfeeding structures

Ø      the impact of HIV on a mother’s decision to breastfeed

Ø      the encouraging research of exclusive breastfeeding on the reduction of HIV transmission

Ø      the need for continued efforts to develop ways to eliminate the need for formula in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit setting

Ø      the critical continuing challenge for the implementation of the International Code and all relevant resolutions of the World Health Assembly

Ø      the important task of ensuring that the instruments of the World Trade Organization, such as the Codex Alimentarius standard setting process for infant foods, are in conformity with the International Code and Resolutions.

     New research from the Swedish Karolinska Institute on the amazing hormonal responses of mother and infant contact was presented, as well as the impact of birthing practices on breastfeeding.

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