Expert reveals Breastfeeding reduces risk of breast cancer, maternal obesity

Dr Babagana Machina, Executive Secretary, Yobe Primary Health Care Board, has revealed that breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast cancer and maternal obesity. Machina stated this in Potiskum on Wednesday at the inauguration of the 2023 World Breastfeeding Week.

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According to him, six months of exclusive breastfeeding minimises childhood infections and increases intelligence of babies. He also noted that breast milk is a unique nutritional source that cannot be replaced by any other food, including well-formulated infant formula.

Machina, therefore, called on critical stakeholders to assist in promoting exclusive breastfeeding for a healthy development of babies.

In his remarks, Alhaji Abdullahi Jawa, Permanent Secretary of the state’s  Ministry of Health, said the week-long event had the theme : “Enable Breastfeeding – making a difference for working parents”. He also expressed optimism that the event would foster adoption of exclusive breastfeeding among nursing mothers.

Jawa also revealed that Gov. Mai Mala Buni had recently approved the expansion of free maternal neonatal and child health services to cover all pregnant women and under-five children. He added that the approval was part of efforts to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity in the state.

Wumi/NAN