Exclusive breastfeeding during babies’ first six months has risen from about 37% in 2012 to more than 47% worldwide, strengthening early nutrition and protection from illness.
“These gains show that sustained investments in policies and programmes for mothers and families are working,” said Catherine Russell, UNICEF Executive Director, and Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General.
Breastfeeding up to two years of age has also increased, rising from 38% to 50% over the past five years. Expanding proven support could prevent almost 400,000 child deaths and around 140,000 maternal deaths annually, while every US$1 invested in breastfeeding promotion is estimated to generate US$59 in economic returns. Countries are being encouraged to strengthen healthcare and community support, maternity leave and workplace policies so more families can benefit.
