The World Health Organization (WHO) has urged countries to strengthen breastfeeding support and build resilient health systems to ensure every child gets a healthy start in life. The appeal comes ahead of World Breastfeeding Week (August 1–7), which this year carries the theme “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works.”
Scale Up Proven Interventions
As per WHO, countries already have evidence-based solutions to improve breastfeeding outcomes. However, they must expand access to skilled breastfeeding counselling, train more healthcare workers, strengthen Baby-friendly hospitals, and improve community support for mothers. These measures can significantly increase exclusive breastfeeding rates while improving maternal and child health.
Build Supportive Health Systems
WHO also stressed that governments, healthcare providers, employers, communities, and families must work together to create an environment where mothers receive timely and consistent breastfeeding support. In addition, the organisation called for greater investment in maternity care, workplace breastfeeding policies, and stronger health systems to make quality support available to every mother.
Invest in a Healthier Future
According to WHO, the challenge is no longer identifying effective interventions but investing in them at scale. By strengthening breastfeeding support systems, countries can improve child survival, boost long-term health outcomes, and create lasting social and economic benefits for future generations.