The Breastfeeding & Child Nutrition Foundation of Barbados (BCNF) is celebrating World Breastfeeding Week 2021. And “Sharing is caring” is the message being promoted by the Foundation from this Sunday August 1 to 7.
Under the umbrella of this year’s theme, Protect Breastfeeding: A Shared Responsibility, the BCNF will be hosting a series of free activities focused on the protection, promotion, and support of breastfeeding in Barbados and the need for Government, corporate Barbados, communities and families to work together.
“It truly takes a village,” explained Dr. Alison Bernard, Executive Director of the BCNF, “research has proven that investing in breastfeeding benefits society, so it is important that we all play our part in creating a breastfeeding friendly environment, whether that be at home, in public or in the workplace.”
Linked to a reduction in the risk of childhood obesity and diabetes in children, as well as ovarian and breast cancer in women, breastfeeding has also been proven to bolster the cognitive development and IQ of children.
“The benefits are wide-ranging,” said Dr. Bernard, “and it goes beyond baby and Mum. Healthier families also mean lower healthcare costs and reduced absenteeism.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has quantified this by saying that for every $1 invested in breastfeeding you generate $35 in economic returns.
This underscores the significance of this year’s theme for World Breastfeeding Week and the emphasis on breastfeeding being a shared responsibility.”
Acknowledging that breastfeeding has not always been “trending”, Dr. Bernard credited outspoken advocates and progressive workplaces for bringing increased attention to the cause.
“This year we are proud to be working with public figures and parents like Cheyne Jones, Astra Babb and Nikita as they share their breastfeeding journeys, as mothers and partners.
A common thread in each of their stories is the need for support, from extended family, friends, employers, other breastfeeding mothers, health professionals etc.
Breastfeeding support is a critical part of what we do at the BCNF and this World Breastfeeding Week we implore everyone in Barbados to show they care and share – support breastfeeding in Barbados.”
The “We Protect Breastfeeding” video campaign launches on Sunday, August 1. Other activities include an online discussion around breastfeeding in the workplace, as well as a presentation entitled, “My breasts, Your breasts, Our Future: A Shared Responsibility.”
Visit @thebcnf on Instagram for a full schedule of free activities. (PR)
