JANE KESTREL H.

JAPSON BSN IV-1O July 5, 2010

Breastfeeding in the Philippines

The Struggle against the Milk Powder Companies

Aug 3, 2009 John Walsh

Only 16% of mothers in the Philippines breastfeed their babies, despite the health
benefits of doing so. Why is this and will it change?

The World Health Organization of the United Nations makes it clear that the healthiest
option for babies is for them to be exclusively breastfed for the first six months and for
breastfeeding to be supplemented with solid foods until the age of two. Infant milk
powder (‘formula’) should be used when medical practitioners recommend it based on
the health of the mother. This seems straightforward, yet across East Asia, mothers are
turning away from breast-feeding in large numbers, despite the well-attested health risks
to their babies. In Thailand, only 5% of mothers now breastfeed and only 16% do so in
the Philippines, with the proportions also falling in rapidly developing Vietnam and
Indonesia.

The reason for this is not hard to find. As consumers in East Asian countries become
more affluent, they are increasingly targeted by the milk powder companies, including
Nestle, Mead Johnson and Abbot. In the Philippines, milk powder advertising amounts to
nearly US$90 million per year – not a bad investment when set against sales revenue of
around US$470 million. This has led to a set-to between the Philippines government and
the private sector. Government figures, supported by various health experts, have stated
their desire to see breastfeeding figures increase, up to at least 50% of mothers. To
support this policy, a ban on advertising was mounted. Filipino mothers are not stupid but
many are quite naïve consumers and susceptible to the advanced and sophisticated
marketing techniques deployed by the milk powder companies.

The companies have, of course, fought back vigorously, mounting a campaign on all
fronts. In the first place, they dispute the lessons drawn from scientific evidence and
argue that unsupported arguments are being used as a basis for flawed policy. In the
second place, they argue for the primacy of free choice among consumers and say that,
since mothers want what is best for their children, they should be allowed to choose
freely among all the options available. Then, in the third place, they point to investment
by the companies in the Philippines and the impact on jobs if milk powder is to be
officially discouraged. Crucially, the support of the United States Trade Representative
has been enlisted and words have been uttered (perhaps quite clearly) in government ears.
One result of this has been the abandonment by President Gloria Arroya Macapagal of
her annual speech in favour of breastfeeding. Now the courts are to decide whether the
ban on milk powder advertising is to continue. More than money may rest on the result.
REACTION:

Breastfeeding is the normal way of providing young infants with the nutrients they need
for healthy growth and development. Virtually all mothers can breastfeed, provided they
have accurate information, and the support of their family, the health care system and
society at large.

Yes I myself agree for breastfeeding. Breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to
ensure child health and survival. Breast milk is the ideal food for newborns and infants. It
gives infants all the nutrients they need for healthy development. It is safe and contains
antibodies that help protect infants from common childhood illnesses - such as diarrhoea
and pneumonia. Breast milk is readily available and affordable, which helps to ensure
that infants get adequate sustenance.

Breastfeeding also benefits mothers. The practice when done exclusively often induces a
lack of menstruation, which is a natural method of birth control. It reduces risks of breast
and ovarian cancer later in life, helps women return to their pre-pregnancy weight faster,
and lowers rates of obesity.

Infant formula does not contain the antibodies found in breast milk and is linked to some
risks. Malnutrition can result from over-diluting formula. If formula is used but becomes
unavailable, a return to breastfeeding may not be an option due to diminished breast milk
production.

Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended up to 6 months of age, with continued

breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods up to two years of age or
beyond.

We health practitioners, nurses, physicians should actively promotes breastfeeding as the

best source of nourishment for infants and young children. This fact file explores the
many benefits of the practice, and how helps for mothers can increase breastfeeding
worldwide.