In commemorating World Breastfeeding Week, Dr. Debra Bogen, Acting Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH), visited the Mid-Atlantic Mothers’ Milk Bank (MAMMB) in Pittsburgh. With over 25 years of experience as a primary care pediatrician, Dr. Bogen stressed the numerous health benefits of breastfeeding for both infants and mothers.
While acknowledging the challenges of breastfeeding, Dr. Bogen emphasized the crucial role of milk banks, like MAMMB, in ensuring that infants with special medical requirements receive an all-human milk diet, particularly when a mother’s own milk isn’t available.
Denise O’Connor, the Executive Director of MAMMB, shared her insights, saying, “All infants profit from human milk. However, for those medically at risk, it’s even more vital. As the primary donor milk provider in Pennsylvania, we’ve observed its life-saving capabilities. Donor milk not only fills the gaps but also offers protection against severe complications and acts as a medicinal supplement.”
The American Academy of Pediatrics advises exclusive breastfeeding for about six months post-birth, followed by a combination of breastfeeding and appropriate complementary foods for up to two years or more.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) further lists the advantages of breastfeeding. For mothers, it lowers the chances of heart disease, various cancers, postpartum depression, and Type 2 diabetes. Infants benefit with an enhanced immune system, fewer infections, a decreased risk of several chronic conditions, and a reduced risk of Sudden Unexplained Infant Death Syndrome.
In its 2023-2028 State Health Improvement Plan, the DOH underscores breastfeeding as a key determinant in elevating maternal and infant health outcomes across Pennsylvania.
