Illustrative photo (Source: VNA)Hanoi (VNA) – The Vietnam National Institute of Nutrition, theAlive and Thrive project and the Hanoi University of Technology launched anonline training programme on child care to respond to the World BreastfeedingWeek 2017 that runs from August 1-7.
The 48-hour programme aims to strengthen the capacity of healthcarestaff on supporting mothers in breastfeeding and weaning.
This year, World Breastfeeding Week is themed “Sustainable BreastfeedingTogether,” highlighting the significance of cooperation among governments,non-government organisations, research institutes, development partners and theprivate sector in promoting policies to increase the number of breastfed children.
According to Le Danh Tuyen, Director of the Vietnam National Instituteof Nutrition, breastfeeding is not just the job of the mother, as it requiressupport from many parties, including healthcare staff, family members,employers and policy-makers.
He stressed that the institute is willing to work with all partners tocreate a favourable environment for the health of women and children.
Research shows that breastfeeding significantly contributes to strengtheningmaternal and child health, while promoting economic growth. According to Lancetmagazine, breastfeeding helps reduce healthcare costs and builds a strongerlabour force.
A report from UNICEF and the Alive and Thrive project said that optimalbreastfeeding can save 23.36 million USD in spending for hospitals in Vietnam.
New research also said that in Vietnam, increasing breastfeeding couldsave the lives of more than 2,000 children each year and contribute to reducingfatality among under-five children.VNA
VNA
