Cyprus is set to launch a four-year national strategy from 2024 to 2027 aimed at promoting breastfeeding, in line with WHO and UNICEF guidelines, which includes initiatives like encouraging breastfeeding within the first hour and supporting exclusive breastfeeding for six months. As the country observes a rise in mixed feeding practices from 65.7% in 2010 to 88.3% in 2022, this strategy seeks to create a supportive environment and educate the community on the numerous benefits of breastfeeding for both infants and mothers.
What is Cyprus’ national strategy to enhance breastfeeding practices?
Cyprus is launching a four-year national strategy (2024-2027) to promote breastfeeding, aligning with WHO and UNICEF’s Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding. The strategy includes:
1. Encouraging breastfeeding within the first hour of birth.
2. Supporting exclusive breastfeeding for six months.
3. Continuing breastfeeding for two years or beyond.
4. Creating a supportive environment in homes, workplaces, and public.
5. Educating healthcare professionals and the public on breastfeeding benefits.
Rising Trends and Strategic Goals
In the past decade, Cyprus has seen a significant shift in infant feeding practices. The mix of breastmilk and formula feeding among infants has increased from 65.7% in 2010 to a notable 88.3% in 2022. Addressing this trend, the Cypriot government is launching a comprehensive national strategy, spanning from 2024 to 2027, to promote and support breastfeeding.
The strategy aims to encourage involvement from all sectors of society. Its overarching goal is to underscore the benefits of breastfeeding for infants, mothers, and society. Recognizing the importance of early nutrition, the health ministry has underscored October as breastfeeding month, rallying the community with the powerful message of ‘Closing the gap: Supporting breastfeeding for all’. This initiative reflects a global understanding of breastfeeding’s critical role in development and health.
Aligning with Global Standards
The foundation of Cyprus’ national policy is the alignment with the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF’s Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding. These steps are designed to provide support to mothers from the moment of birth, recommending that infants be breastfed within the first hour. The health benefits of breastfeeding are well-documented, with exclusive breastfeeding until six months of age being the ideal as per health experts.
After the first six months, while introducing appropriate supplementary foods, the strategy stresses the importance of continued breastfeeding up to two years of age or beyond. Expert guidance during this transition is crucial for both mother and child’s well-being.
Creating a Supportive Environment
One of the pivotal elements of increasing breastfeeding rates is the creation of a supportive environment. This involves making societal adjustments to accommodate breastfeeding in various settings—homes, workplaces, and public areas. By normalizing breastfeeding in public and providing the necessary facilities and support in workplaces, mothers are more likely to breastfeed for the recommended duration.
The national strategy endeavors to break down barriers and change perceptions about breastfeeding, making it a natural part of life that is openly embraced and facilitated by the community.
Building on Existing Knowledge
Educating healthcare professionals, parents, and the general populace is a key component of this strategy. By enhancing the knowledge base around breastfeeding, the government hopes to empower individuals to make informed decisions about infant nutrition. This includes training for healthcare providers in maternity settings, so they can offer the best possible support to new mothers starting their breastfeeding journey.
In conclusion, Cyprus’ national strategy for increasing breastfeeding is a thoughtful, multi-year plan aimed at improving the health and well-being of its youngest citizens and their mothers. It acknowledges the vital role that societal support plays in successful breastfeeding and seeks to foster an environment where breastfeeding is accessible, understood, and encouraged.
FAQ: Cyprus’ National Strategy to Enhance Breastfeeding Practices
What is the main goal of Cyprus’ national strategy for breastfeeding from 2024 to 2027?
Cyprus aims to promote and support breastfeeding in line with WHO and UNICEF guidelines. The strategy emphasizes early breastfeeding initiation within the first hour, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, and continued breastfeeding for two years or beyond. It also seeks to create a supportive environment across homes, workplaces, and public spaces, while educating healthcare professionals and the community about the benefits of breastfeeding.
Why has Cyprus seen an increase in mixed feeding practices, and how does the strategy address this?
The prevalence of mixed feeding (breastmilk and formula) among infants in Cyprus rose from 65.7% in 2010 to 88.3% in 2022. To address this trend, the national strategy focuses on raising awareness about the advantages of exclusive breastfeeding, enhancing community support, and providing education on the importance of breastfeeding for both infants and mothers.
How does the strategy align with global breastfeeding standards?
Cyprus’ national strategy adheres to the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF’s Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding. These guidelines recommend breastfeeding immediately after birth, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, and continued breastfeeding along with appropriate supplementary foods for up to two years or more. The strategy aims to ensure that mothers receive expert guidance and support throughout their breastfeeding journey.
What initiatives are being implemented to create a supportive environment for breastfeeding in Cyprus?
The strategy includes initiatives to normalize breastfeeding in public and provide necessary facilities and support in workplaces. By addressing societal perceptions and barriers to breastfeeding, the plan aims to foster a community where breastfeeding is widely accepted and actively encouraged. Additionally, educational programs will be implemented to inform healthcare providers and the general public about breastfeeding benefits, encouraging informed decisions regarding infant nutrition.
