A World Vision banner promoting breastfeeding in Cambodia. WORLD VISION
As part of the Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) movement, UNICEF, World Vision International Cambodia and their partners have issued a statement warning of a sharp decline in breastfeeding rates in the country, as shown by the latest Cambodia Demographic Health Survey (CDHS 2021-22).
The survey shows that early breastfeeding – giving a baby breast milk within one hour of birth – dropped from 66 to 54 per cent in the last decade, while exclusive breastfeeding – feeding babies only breast milk for the first six months of life – has fallen from 74 to 50 per cent, according to a UNICEF press release.
“These results are worrisome, as breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure child health and survival at the start of life,” said the release.
Citing global estimates, it said the lives of about 820,000 children would be saved every year if breastfeeding were scaled up to near universal levels. Breastfeeding also supports a child’s learning and prevents obesity and chronic diseases later in life.
Will Parks, UNICEF representative to Cambodia, described breast milk as one of the greatest gifts a mother can give to her child. Infants nurtured through breastfeeding are more likely to survive, are more protected against life-threatening diseases, and grow into healthier adults.
“Let us renew our dedication to creating a better environment that empowers mothers with the knowledge and ability to breastfeed in all settings, from the moment of the child’s birth in the health facility to the family home and the mother’s workplace. In doing so, all children can get the best start in life, and we lay the foundation for Cambodia’s future generations to thrive,” he added.
The CDHS 2021-22 identified several factors that may have contributed to the decline in breastfeeding rates, such as continued aggressive marketing of breast milk substitutes (BMS) like infant formula, lack of awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding over BMS, and limited support for breastfeeding mothers as they return to work. The decline in breastfeeding was observed before the Covid-19 pandemic.
Grana Pu Selvi, a technical lead for integrated nutrition at World Vision Cambodia, said that as part of its health and nutrition programmes, her organisation works with health facilities, parents/caregivers, and community representatives to promote breastfeeding in Cambodia.
“Breastfeeding is a shared responsibility, and it needs support from all parts of society. We urge everyone to invest in breastfeeding for a better and more sustainable Cambodia,” she added.
Women made up 47.1 per cent of the total labour force in Cambodia in 2022, yet paid maternity leave in the country is currently only 90 days, which is shorter than the minimum International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) recommendation of 18 weeks (126 days).
Prak Sophonneary, a secretary of state at the Ministry of Health, said officials are conducting several activities to encourage the bestfeeding practices for infants and young children.
“We also urge all health workers to follow Sub-Decree 133 on the Marketing of Products for Infant and Young Child Feeding and to protect, promote and support breastfeeding in their work,” she added.
To address the alarming drop in breastfeeding rates, SUN partners in Cambodia are working together to encourage the government to enforce existing legislation on the marketing of BMS, put better maternity leave provisions in place, improve breastfeeding counselling and support services, and strengthen public awareness of and community engagement in breastfeeding.
