The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #63867

Ernest Dabiré, Département de médecine sociale et préventive, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, 2-2815, Barclay Avenue, Montreal, QC H3S 1J7, Canada, 514-343-3775, ernest.dabire@umontreal.ca

PURPOSE: Breastfeeding provides significant health advantages for both mother and child. The importance of support within health system has been renewed through the global strategy for infant and young child feeding. While changes occurred within the WHO/UNICEF baby friendly hospital initiative (BFHI) in the world, the effects remain limited and may be improved. DATA/INFORMATION: This presentation will discuss the WHO/UNICEF approach as outlined in the BFHI guidelines (early initiation, feeding on demand, exclusivity and rooming-in; skills and knowledge of care providers and mothers) and the manner in which this approach supports maternal and child care within different contexts. METHOD: Available program and survey data will be used to illustrate the limitations of the BFHI in general and in developing countries. RESULTS: Examples are given to clarify that successes related to BFHI are less evident than those published. Breastfeeding rates decrease once mothers leave the maternity ward. IMPLICATIONS: The discussion will address how breastfeeding could be integrated in a global strategy to fit community needs. The conclusion will present recommendations suggesting to extend activities to more comprehensive community intiatives in order to take context characteristics, cross-system activities (horizontal perspective) and cross-level structures(vertical perspective) into account.

Learning Objectives:

At the end of the presentation the participant will develop an understanding of the BFHI and its limitations as well as being able to discuss means for evolving from FBHI to health promoting hospital approach. At the end of the presentation, the participant will be able to : (
• describe the BFHI, (
• outline the approach's limitations in developing countries, and (
• discuss potential strategies relating to more comprehensive community initiatives.

Keywords: Breast Feeding, Community-Oriented Primary Care

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.