Report Identifies Strategies That Increase Breastfeeding Rates

Breastfeeding Programs and Policies, Breastfeeding Uptake, and Maternal Health Outcomes in Developed Countries, a new evidence review from AHRQ's Effective Health Care Program, shows the incidence and duration of breastfeeding are increased by hospital programs such as the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative; clinician training combined with postpartum home visits; and peer support offered through the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children.

The report also shows breastfeeding is associated with reduced maternal risk of breast and ovarian cancer, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes.

The report was supported by HHS's Office on Women's Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Select to access Breastfeeding Programs and Policies, Breastfeeding Uptake, and Maternal Health Outcomes in Developed Countries.