How the US Could Save $13 Billion per Year in Health Care

August is “National Breastfeeding Month”! I am passionate about this topic and personally invested in it as a Breastfeeding Counselor.

Did you know that…“If 90% of US families could comply with medical recommendations to breastfeed exclusively for 6 months, the United States would save $13 billion per year” and reduce a number of infections, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. The list of diseases protected by breastmilk is long. The evidence showing the physical and mental health benefits of breastfeeding for mothers and infants is solid.

However, despite the recommendation to breastfeed exclusively for about the first 6 months, less than 50% of infants were exclusively breastfed through 3 months and about 25% were exclusively breastfed through 6 months. (https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/data/).

So where is the disconnect? Addressing the heart of the matter goes beyond just knowing facts or defaulting to expensive/complex programs and laws. Every mom faces a unique set of challenges based on their family support, socioeconomic factors, access to evidence based information and resources, and condition of physical/mental health. Breastfeeding support for moms should be personal, compassionate, accessible, ongoing, consistent, and interactive. This is most effective when facilitated through local peer groups, counselors, consultants, and family/friend networks. When we leverage and coordinate existing expertise and talent from individuals in the community we are more likely to help moms address and overcome barriers to their breastfeeding goals.

When we understand the significance of the uniquely designed mother/infant relationship and its impact on families and society, then we are more likely to value and preserve it. Protecting the health and bond of the mother and infant in the early days establishes a foundation with lasting effects throughout childhood and adulthood. When that relationship is interrupted or discouraged, we undermine the mother’s role and hinder the potential of that child. This strains the health and stability of the infant, the mother, the family, and ultimately society.

As state representative, I will continue to work to remove barriers and obstacles that prevent moms from receiving proper breastfeeding support and to apply local, personal, cost effective solutions that produce quality results.

~Elizabeth Harrah
State Representative candidate for Winchester and Stoneham