Recent breastfeeding rates show that the UK ranks lowest in the world, as reported by an international study. The statistics show that out of 200 women, only one (or 0.5 percent) continues to breastfeed after a year.
As can be seen in the Lancet, this compares with 99 percent in Senegal, 56 percent in Brazil and 23 percent in Germany. According to the researchers, one very common misconception is that breastfeeding is only beneficial in poor countries.
In the UK, 81 percent of moms attempted to breastfeed. However, at six months, only 34 percent were breastfeeding and at 12 months, only 0.5 percent. In the United States, 79 percent tried breastfeeding, 49 percent continued until six months and only 27 percent continued after one year.
Though breastfeeding is indeed fairly common in developing countries, the UK's rate is the world's worst record as they fall extremely behind other European countries. Mothers living in the UK are advised to feed their babies on breast milk only for the first six months and then a combination of breast milk and other kinds of food after that. However, no end-point has been defined.
"Breastfeeding saves lives and money in all countries, rich and poor alike," Professor Cesar Victora said from Brazil's Federal University of Pelotas. Breast milk provides babies with several health benefits that no formula can ever offer. It strengthens babies' immune systems and lowers their risk of ovarian and breast cancer.
In fact, the Lancet report also proved that in developing countries, in which breastfeeding is prevalent, the risk of sudden infant deaths is reduced by more than a third. In addition, some cases of diarrhea and respiratory infections can be avoided by simply breastfeeding. As mentioned by BBC, the authors of the report said that breastfeeding can save more than 800,000 children's lives a year.
Sarah Redshaw of Baby Centre commented on the findings and reminded people of the difficulties mothers face when they breastfeed, which sometimes force them to give up. "It is crucial to bear in mind the various barriers and challenges faced by mums when it comes to breastfeeding," she said.
"Generally mums are aware that breastfeeding is best for their baby but often don't get the right support if they encounter problems in the early weeks - which many, many do. As a result, significant numbers give up on breastfeeding."
