World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) is observed annually during the first week of August. Supported by WHO, UNICEF, and global health partners, this campaign highlights the importance of breastfeeding while advocating for a supportive environment for all breastfeeding mothers. The 2024 theme, “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All,” focuses on creating inclusive support systems that empower mothers from all backgrounds.
Why Breastfeeding Matters
Breastfeeding is vital for the health and development of both mothers and babies. It provides essential nutrients, strengthens immunity, and promotes bonding. For mothers, it reduces the risk of certain cancers and enhances postnatal recovery. Despite its benefits, many mothers face barriers due to lack of support, stigma, and limited resources.
Closing the Gap: Support for All
The 2024 theme celebrates breastfeeding mothers in all their diversity. It highlights how families, communities, and health workers can play a role in empowering mothers. Support can come in many forms:
- Encouraging mothers through emotional support.
- Providing workplaces with breastfeeding-friendly policies.
- Training healthcare workers to offer guidance and education.
Through collective efforts, we can ensure every mother feels supported throughout her breastfeeding journey.
The Role of Society
Families, workplaces, and societies must prioritize breastfeeding as a collective responsibility. Communities can provide safe spaces for mothers. Governments can advocate for paid maternity leave and breastfeeding-friendly public areas. These actions help bridge the gap and create inclusive environments.
Celebrating Diversity in Breastfeeding
World Breastfeeding Week 2024 recognizes that no two breastfeeding journeys are the same. By embracing diversity, the campaign aims to create a supportive environment for all mothers, regardless of their circumstances.
Awareness program by Dept. of Food Science, Nutrition & Dietetics
Department of Food Science, Nutrition and Dietetics conducted an awareness program on ‘World Breastfeeding Week. Closing the gap: Breastfeeding support for all.’
Students actively participated in poster display, lactation recipe display and a play, through which they learnt more about healthy lifestyle for breastfeeding.
Watch the highlights on YouTube.