How does breastfeeding reduce infant mortality?

The Impact of Breastfeeding on Infant Mortality
Breastfeeding is a vital practice that significantly contributes to reducing infant mortality rates, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). As global health initiatives continue to emphasize the importance of breastfeeding, research highlights its multifaceted benefits for both infants and mothers.
Nutritional Superiority and Immune Support
Breast milk is uniquely designed to meet the nutritional needs of infants during their first months of life. It provides all the essential nutrients, antibodies, and bioactive components necessary for healthy growth and development. According to studies, breastfeeding can reduce the risk of death for infants in their first year by bolstering their immune systems against common infections such as diarrhea and pneumonia, which are leading causes of infant mortality. The protective antibodies present in breast milk help infants fend off these diseases, significantly lowering their disease burden.
Statistical Evidence of Reduced Mortality Rates
Research has shown a clear correlation between breastfeeding initiation and reduced infant mortality rates. For instance, a study indicated that the initiation of breastfeeding is associated with a significant reduction in total infant mortality, with adjusted odds ratios suggesting a 19% decrease in mortality risk for infants who are breastfed. Furthermore, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months is recognized as the strongest predictor of infant survival, particularly in regions where infectious diseases are prevalent.
Early Initiation and Its Critical Role
The timing of breastfeeding initiation is crucial. Evidence suggests that early initiation—within the first hour after birth—can reduce neonatal deaths by up to three times. This early contact not only provides immediate nutrition but also fosters a strong bond between mother and child, enhancing the infant’s chances of survival.
Broader Health Implications
Beyond immediate nutritional benefits, breastfeeding has long-term health implications. It reduces the risk of chronic conditions later in life, such as obesity and diabetes, which can indirectly influence overall health outcomes and mortality rates. Additionally, breastfeeding supports maternal health by reducing the risk of certain cancers and promoting postpartum recovery.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding is a powerful intervention that plays a critical role in reducing infant mortality. Its nutritional benefits, immune support, and the importance of early initiation collectively contribute to healthier outcomes for infants. As global health policies continue to advocate for breastfeeding, the evidence underscores its essential role in safeguarding the lives of the most vulnerable members of society.

How does breastfeeding help infants?

Breastfeeding can help protect babies against some short- and long-term illnesses and diseases. Breastfed babies have a lower risk of asthma, obesity, type 1 diabetes, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Breastfed babies are also less likely to have ear infections and stomach bugs.

How many deaths can be prevented by breastfeeding?

New estimates produced for the two-part series reveal that increasing breastfeeding to near-universal levels for infants and young children could save over 800,000 children’s lives a year worldwide (equivalent to 13% of all deaths in children under two) and prevent an extra 20,000 deaths from breast cancer every year.

What reduces SIDS the most?

Place babies on their backs to sleep for naps and at night.
Babies who sleep on their backs are at lower risk for SIDS than babies who sleep on their stomachs or sides. If baby usually sleeps on their back, putting them on the stomach or side to sleep, like for a nap, increases the risk for SIDS by up to 45 times.

How does breastfeeding reduce child mortality?

Yet, despite these barriers, if breastfeeding was increased to universal measures, 823,000 children’s lives would be saved each year in high mortality rate LMICS (11) because breastfeeding can reduce death due to diarrhea (16), respiratory infections (16), and infectious diseases (17), to name a few (11).

How does breastfeeding prevent sudden infant death syndrome?

Mothers are able to intervene and move their babies into a position of safety in their cot or bassinet should baby roll or move into an unsafe sleeping position. The hormones produced during breastfeeding prolactin and oxytocin, also help women adapt to their role as a mother.

Does breastfeeding reduce infant mortality?

Three hundred eighty four percent of infant deaths could be decreased if all infants were breastfed before 24 hours and 196% if breastfeeding was started within the first hour to 24 hours after birth. In addition, when children are not exclusively breast fed, the risk of infant death will increase by 686%.

How much does breastfeeding reduce the risk of SIDS?

This study shows that breastfeeding reduced the risk of SIDS by ∼50% at all ages throughout infancy. We recommend including the advice to breastfeed through 6 months of age in SIDS-reduction messages.

What are the major advantages of breastfeeding for the infant?

Breastfeeding can help to reduce your baby’s risk of: infections, with fewer visits to hospital as a result. diarrhoea and vomiting, with fewer visits to hospital as a result. sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

Why does room sharing reduce SIDS?

Goodstein said, when babies sleep in the same room as their parents, the background sounds or stirrings prevent very deep sleep and that helps keeps the babies safe. Room sharing also makes breast-feeding easier, which is protective against SIDS.

Can I feed my husband my breast milk?

While the practice isn’t commonly discussed, some people enjoy adult breastfeeding. You might want to experiment with this practice for many reasons, though you might also find it uncomfortable. There aren’t major health concerns in most cases, so if you’re intrigued, free to try breastfeeding your husband or partner.