79th WHA Individual Statements
ILCA emphasizes breastfeeding as a life- and cost-saving intervention, having the largest impact on child mortality of any preventive intervention.
The DG’s report shows improvements in breastfeeding rates, though still below targets. It is critical to increase investment in breastfeeding, including training the workforce and ensuring the minimum recommended six counseling contacts.
Commercial milk formula marketing undermines breastfeeding. Effective implementation and monitoring of the Code, including digital marketing, remains imperative. Multiple contamination-related recalls were exacerbated by cross-border digital marketing, causing serious illness and family distress, often with a lack of clear information or sufficient resources for families and health systems.
Breastfeeding is a human right and a powerful driver of health equity, improving health outcomes for the dyad, communities, and populations worldwide.