Attention to the human airway is the first priority in the ABCs of CPR--cardio-pulmonary resuscitation. To date research and understanding of human airway growth, development and deformation have not drawn the same priority attention.
Breast feeding, suckling, develops better airways and overall general health. Suckling action promotes physiological forward formation of oral structures that surround the airway. Bottle and pacifier sucking deforms, constricts and places backwards forces on oral structures which then act to collapse airways.
Abundant advantages of breast milk over supplements have been well documented, with most attention centered on the nutritional values and immunological components. Although many positive health effects have been attributed to breast milk, breast suckling mechanical action deserves primary credit for some short and long term health effects.
As we better understand the impact of infant feeding on development and deformation of oral structures, we will better understand the development and deformation of the human airway. Prevention of such human illnesses as SIDs, apnea, otitis media, nocturnal enuresis, diabetes, hearing and coronary disease will begin at infancy. Then the urgency to support and promote breastfeeding will gain renewed enthusiasm, acceptance and implementation. Ultimately, health disparities will be diminished.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, each participant will be able to 1) List 5 major new profound reasons that breastfeeding should be encouraged, promoted and supported. 2) Recognize and describe the impact of suckling vs. sucking on growth, development and deformation of the oral structures and airway. 3) Understand the urgent need to incorporate breastfeeding support and promotion into public health programs in order to achieve major health care cost savings, to improve quality-of-life and to eliminate health disparities
Keywords: Breast Feeding, Preventive Medicine
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.