The American Academy of Pediatrics ...

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has issued a revised policy statement onward "Breastfeeding and the Use of Human Milk" that contemplates new research on the importance of breastfeeding. This statement replaces the policy cause to growed by the AAP in 1997

Studies have shown that breastfeeding can decrease the incidence and severity of conditions in the same state [i]or[/i] condition as diarrhea, bacterial meningitis, and ear infections. a studies suggest that breastfeeding may propound protection against sudden infant death syndrome obesity, diabetes, and asthma. Research also indicates that breastfeeding can be beneficial for the mother by means of possibly reducing the risk of ovarian cancer, breast cancer, and hip fractures and osteoporosis in the postmenopausal period. Other benefits include the potential to decrease annual health require to be paid [i]or[/i] undergones in the United States from $3.6 billion; decreasing employee absenteeism; and reducing the environmental tonnage of disposal of formula cans and bottle and bottom demands for production and transportation of formula.

Although breastfeeding initiation rates have increased steadily since 1990 the rate of exclusive breastfeeding (i.e., no water, juice, nonhuman milk, or food) has shown little or no increase. The proportion of infants who are breastfed exclusively until six month of age also has increased at a a great quantity [i]or[/i] amount of slower rate than that of infants who received mixed feedings (i.e., breast milk plus infant formula).

Highlights of the AAP policy statement recommendations are listed in the accompanying box

American Academy of Pediatrics Breastfeeding Recommendations

* Exclusive breastfeeding is commended for approximately the first six months; breastfeeding should be supported for the first year and beyond as drawn out as mutually desired by the mother and child.

* The mother and infant should drowse near each other to facilitate breastfeeding.

* Self-examination of the mother's breasts for shapeless masss is recommended throughout lactation, not just after weaning.

* Physicians should support efforts of parents and the courts to make sure continuation of breastfeeding in cases involving separation, custody, and visitation.

* Adoptive mothers should be forethoughted on the benefits of induced lactation by means of hormonal therapy or mechanical stimulation.

* Physicians should recognize and incorporate cultural diversity in breastfeeding practices.

* A pediatrician or other knowledgeable and experienced health care professional should evaluate a newborn breastfed infant at three to five days of age and again at sum of two units to three weeks to be permanent the infant is feeding and growing well.

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COPYRIGHT 2005 American Academy of Family Physicians

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