PHNOM PENH (Xinhua): The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and its partners on Friday warned of an alarming decline in breastfeeding rates in Cambodia, calling for immediate action to reverse this downward trend.
In a press statement, the UN agency said the latest Cambodia Demographic Health Survey (CDHS 2021-22) showed that early breastfeeding, giving a baby breast milk within one hour of birth, has dropped from 66 percent to 54 percent in the last decade.
Meanwhile, exclusive breastfeeding, feeding babies only breast milk for the first six months of life, has fallen from 74 percent to 50 percent, the statement said.
"These results are worrisome as breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure child health and survival at the start of life," the statement said. "Breastfeeding also supports a child's learning and prevents obesity and chronic diseases later in life."
UNICEF Representative in Cambodia Will Parks said breast milk is one of the greatest gifts a mother can give her child, saying that infants nurtured through breastfeeding are more likely to survive, are more protected against life-threatening diseases, and grow into healthier adults.
"Let us renew our dedication to creating a better environment that empowers mothers with the knowledge and ability to breastfeed in all settings, from the moment of the child's birth in the health facility to the family home and the mother's workplace," he said.
The survey identifies several factors that may have contributed to the decline in breastfeeding rates, such as the continued aggressive marketing of breast milk substitutes (BMS) like infant formula, lack of awareness of breastfeeding benefits over BMS, and limited support for breastfeeding mothers as they go back to work.
Cambodian Ministry of Health's Secretary of State Prak Sophonneary said the ministry has been carrying out various activities to encourage the best feeding practices for infants and young children.
"These include the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative and the National Policy on Infant and Young Child Feeding," she said.
"We also urge all health workers to follow Sub-Decree 133 on the Marketing of Products for Infant and Young Child Feeding and to protect, promote and support breastfeeding in their work," Sophonneary added. Enditem
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