Breast Feeding in Developing Countries: Is There a Scope forImprovement

The World Health Organisation recommends exclusive breast feeding till six months of age followed by breast feeding along with complementary feeding thereafter for optimal growth of children. Thirteen percent of under five mortality can be averted globally each year by breast feeding alone. Despite recognition of this benefit, rates of exclusive breastfeeding for WHO recommended period is poor, especially in developing countries where the need is most. Several studies have shown that educational interventions significantly increased breastfeeding rates. Structured combined individual and group counselling seems to be the best method of improving breast feeding rates at this time.