The World Health Organization today revealed that only 37 countries out of 199 countries (19 per cent) have laws that fully reflect the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes.
According to the global health body, 69 countries (35 per cent) fully prohibit advertising of breast-milk substitutes; 62 (31%) completely prohibit free samples or low-cost supplies for health services; 64 (32%) completely prohibit gifts of any kind from relevant manufacturers to health workers; 83 (42%) require a message about the superiority of breastfeeding on breast-milk substitute labels; and only 45 countries (23%) report having a functioning implementation and monitoring system.
On the need for full implementation of the code, Dr Carmen Casanovas, breastfeeding expert with WHO’s Department of Nutrition for Health and Development said it could help in lowering the promotion of breast milk substitutes.
“Full implementation of the Code is vital for reducing or
eliminating all forms of promotion of breast-milk substitutes, including
direct and indirect promotion to pregnant women and mothers of infants
and young children," Dr Casanovas said.
On the importance of breastfeeding, WHO said it is a rich source of nourishment.
"Breastfeeding is the best source of nourishment for infants and
young children and one of the most effective ways to ensure child health
and survival. People who were breastfed as babies are less likely to be
overweight or obese later in life. They may also be less prone to
diabetes and perform better in intelligence tests; but globally only an
estimated 38% of infants are exclusively breastfed for six months," WHO stated.
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