BREAST FEEDING WEEK & LEGISLATION

Every year, from August 1st to 7th, the world observes Breastfeeding Week. This global initiative, organized by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA), aims to remove obstacles that hinder breastfeeding. Each year carries a different theme; for 2023, it's "Let’s Make Breastfeeding and Work, Works." The focus is to empower working women by facilitating breastfeeding for their infants in the workplace. This issue is critical since more than half of working women worldwide lack essential maternity protections. Alarmingly, only 20% of countries provide women employees with paid breaks and facilities for breastfeeding or expressing breast milk. This paradox highlights the contradiction between empowering women in economic development and not adequately supporting their needs in the workplace. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that fewer than half of infants under six months of age are exclusively breastfed. Interestingly, Islamic teachings, as evident in various Hadiths and Quranic verses such as Al-Baqarah 233, Al-Ahqaf 15, Surah Luqman 14, Surah Nisa 23, Surah Talaq 6, Surah Al Hajj 2, and Surah Qasas 12 & 17, advocate breastfeeding for a duration of two years, showcasing the alignment of ancient wisdom with modern scientific understanding. Breastfeeding offers numerous benefits, which science is increasingly confirming. It serves as the first vaccine for infants, as early milk (colostrum) contains antibodies that protect against illnesses such as diarrhea and pneumonia. Additionally, breastfeeding is cost-effective, readily available, and provides adequate energy to children for their first six months. It also aids in preventing childhood obesity, diabetes, and various infections. Exclusive breastfeeding makes children 14 times more likely to survive compared to those not breastfed. Furthermore, mothers also benefit by having a lower risk of breast and ovarian cancer& Natural Birth Spacing While international organizations and policymakers recognized the significance of breastfeeding in 1990, the principles of promoting, protecting, and supporting breastfeeding have been part of Islamic teachings for over 1400 years. Despite this, working women in Pakistan, especially in professions like banking, face challenges due to long working hours and insufficient awareness about breastfeeding practices. WHO statistics for Pakistan reveal that only 18% of infants initiate early breastfeeding within one hour of birth, and a mere 37.7% practice exclusive breastfeeding for six months. This low rate contributes to the high prevalence of child stunting (44%) other health issues. Promoting breastfeeding not only prevents 823,000 annual deaths in children under five years but also safeguards women from breast cancer, resulting in 20,000 fewer deaths annually. This practice also serves as a vital component of birth spacing. In 2023, the Breastfeeding Week theme centers on facilitating breastfeeding for working mothers. International Labor Organization (ILO) conventions require that workplaces with more than 50 women provide dedicated spaces and breaks for breastfeeding. However, despite these regulations, challenges persist. While women receive three months of maternity leave, exclusive breastfeeding requires six months, often leading to the dilemma of quitting jobs or compromising infant nutrition. The lack of paternity leave and limited support systems further exacerbate these issues. Despite the existence of legislative bills such as the Protection of Breastfeeding Act in various provinces of Pakistan, recent developments have exposed gaps in implementation and understanding.In July 2023 bill was passed in Sindh assembly for protection & Promotion of Breast Feeding & young children Nutrition Act 2023 to ensure safe & Adequate Nutrition for infants& Young Children up to 36 months. It is strange that Governor Sindh sent back bill to assembly without signing (National.com.pk) on 8th August 2023 by saying that it will effect dairy milk industry In(Is health of infants more important than Dairy Milk Industries) or as Federal DG Health Services Dr Baseer Achakzai on Wednesday in Islamabad stated in his speech to a seminar during Breast feeding week that Governor Sindh has Zero knowledge. In same Seminar Khawaja Masood Ahmed National coordinator told that an average family spends annually 300,000 on formula milk and 300 to 500 Billion Rupees are spent for importing these formula baby milk . The Baby milk & food industries are misleading the governor Sindh as media is criticizing but it is really strange that why he did not consult any senior Pediatrician or he really does not know the importance of breast feeding and silence of Pakistan Pediatrician Association on this issue is also doubtful (Who gets benefits from these industries). The reluctance of some authorities, influenced by industries promoting formula milk, raises concerns about prioritizing infant health over commercial interests. It is essential for the government, healthcare providers, families, and employers to collaborate to ensure the well-being of both working mothers and their infants. The alignment of ancient teachings with modern science underscores the timeless wisdom of nurturing infants through breastfeeding. By prioritizing the support of working mothers, governments, employers, and society can collectively ensure a healthier future for children and mothers alike.