The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has stated that an estimated 13 percent of children’s deaths could be averted if 90 percent of mothers exclusively breastfed their infants for the first six months of life.
A Nutrition Specialist with UNICEF, Mrs. Philomena Irene stated this at the 2024 Media Dialogue Journalists as Change Agents, pointing out that exclusive breastfeeding boosts immune system with breast milk that contains antibodies that protect infants from infections and diseases.
Irene who spoke on the theme: ‘Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All,’ underscores UNICEF’s commitment to ensuring that every mother has access to the support she needs regardless of her circumstances.
According to her, delaying breastfeeding by 2-23 hours after birth increases the risk of a baby dying in the first 28 days of a baby’s life by 40 per cent.
She explained that this year focuses on how grandmothers and fathers as men can play supportive role to their wives regarding exclusive breastfeeding at homes to make a difference.
Irene further argued that men should make themselves available to assist their wives with childcare and household chores so that the baby’s mother can take time to breastfeed babies.
“They should talk with family members, including grandmothers, about committing to breast-milk only for the baby’s first 6 months.
“Talk with family members about the need to feed the baby milk, eggs, and green or orange fruits and vegetables every four days,” Irene said.
She also advised men to always check the progress of breastfeeding plan with their wives, at least, once a week.