The World Breastfeeding Week was celebrated here on Monday. The need to encourage breastfeeding among lactating mothers was stressed during a programme held at Government Ranee’s Hospital here.
D. Parimala Devi, Dean of the Government Medical College and Hospital, said that breast feeding was vital for promoting bond between mother and child. It prevented post partum haemorrhage, breast cancer, cervical cancer and acted as temporary contraceptive method. Women could maintain body mass.
The breast milk was rich in vitamins, minerals which prevented diabetes, heart ailments and even cancer.
V.C. Subash Gandhi, resource-person, said that the theme of the year was “A key to sustainable development” and asked lactating mothers to breastfeed their babies. A quiz contest on breastfeeding was conducted. Suganya, from Ayanarpuram won the prize. The Dean gave away prize to the winner.