20% of women in Cameroon practice exclusive breastfeeding

"The rate of exclusive breastfeeding in Cameroon is 20%, which is a problem". In the North and far North, breastfeeding rates are the lowest. Dr. Jeanne Ejigui, nutritionist at Unicef, once more sounded the alarm Friday in Douala.

It was at a briefing organized by the regional delegation of public health for the Littoral, in the context of national days for the promotion of breastfeeding, from 11 to 13 December 2014. Theme, "breastfeeding: a challenge winner for life?"

It was particularly questioned during the exchanges with the leaders of health districts, maternity, associations and journalists, to highlight the need to feed the children. The recommended duration is up to the age of two, with exclusive breastfeeding from 0 to 6 months. By exclusive, it must be understood that even water is not permitted.

Discussions were based on two presentations recalling the benefits of breastfeeding as much for the baby, the mother, family and even the society.

The practice also has economic benefits for households. But prior, Dr. Jacques Georges Otti of the regional delegation of the MOH: "inform the public about the links between the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and breastfeeding. Sensitize the community on the actions to be taken to promote, support and protect breastfeeding".