UNICEF and the World Health Organisation (WHO) have said that scaling up breastfeeding worldwide could save nearly 540,000 lives every year, urging governments to invest more in proven interventions that support mothers and babies.
In a joint statement released ahead of World Breastfeeding Week, the agencies said improved breastfeeding practices could prevent nearly 400,000 child deaths and about 140,000 maternal deaths annually, making breastfeeding one of the most cost-effective investments in public health.
They added that the economic benefits are equally compelling, noting that every US$1 invested in breastfeeding promotion generates an estimated US$59 in economic returns through lower healthcare costs, improved cognitive development, higher educational attainment, and increased lifetime earnings.
Despite the enormous health and economic gains, UNICEF and WHO warned that too many mothers and families around the world still lack access to the services, policies, and skilled support needed to initiate and sustain breastfeeding.
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