Decline in breastfeeding rates alarms UNICEF, WHO

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have expressed deep concern over a significant decline in the rate of breastfeeding among children in Bangladesh.

In a joint statement issued, the two organizations revealed that exclusive breastfeeding among infants under six months of age stood at 62.6 percent in 2019, which has dropped to 56.6 percent in 2025 on Tuesday. Over the same period, the rate of initiating breastfeeding within the first hour of birth decreased from 46.6 percent to 30.4 percent.

UNICEF and WHO emphasized that breast milk is one of the primary sources of essential nutrition during the first six months of a child's life. It protects infants from various infectious diseases, boosts their immune system, and aids in physical and mental development. Breastfeeding also offers health benefits for mothers.

However, the two agencies pointed out that many mothers fail to receive necessary advice, encouragement, and support from pregnancy through childbirth. The lack of adequate maternity benefits and breastfeeding-friendly environments in workplaces were identified as major barriers.

Furthermore, the statement noted that promotional campaigns for breast milk substitutes (infant formula and commercial baby foods) are heavily influencing mothers' decisions. These obstacles become even more pronounced during emergencies and humanitarian crises.

The organizations stated that to increase breastfeeding rates, rather than seeking novel solutions, it is crucial to expand and sustain initiatives that have already proven effective. These include counseling by skilled health workers, family and community support, baby-friendly hospitals, maternity protection, and conducive workplace environments for breastfeeding.

UNICEF and WHO urged the implementation of paid maternity leave for working mothers, necessary breaks for breastfeeding, and proper working conditions. They also stressed the effective execution of the Breastmilk Substitutes, Infant Foods, Dietary Supplements, and Accessories (Regulation of Marketing) Act, 2013.

The two agencies called for effective measures to halt inappropriate marketing of infant foods across digital and social media platforms.

According to their calculations, an investment of $1 US dollar in breastfeeding support activities can yield an estimated economic return of approximately $59 US dollars. This benefit is realized through reduced healthcare spending on children, enhanced cognitive development, better educational outcomes, and increased future earning potential.