Breastfeeding Promotion in Thailand
Yupayong Hangchaovanich MD*, Nipunporn Voramongkol MD**
Affiliation : * Charoenkrung Pracharaksa Hospital, Department of Medical Services, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration ** Bureau of Health Promotion, Department of Health, Ministry of Public Health
National Breastfeeding Project in Thailand began in 1989. The main activities were the promotion of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative; legislation on maternity leave; and the Code of Marketing of Breast- milk Substitutes and related products. The development of Baby – Friendly Hospital Initiative may in part explain the increasing of prevalence rate of breastfeeding. However, exclusive breastfeeding has not shown favorable increases. The survey in 2005 found exclusive breastfeeding at 6 months was 14.5% while the national target of the Ninth National Health Development Plan (NHDP) has been set at 30%. There are many factors affecting the success of breastfeeding promotion. The Ministry of Public Health, which is responsible for infant/child health, has to find solutions with the most potential for any problem related to such a matter, especially prevention of childhood diseases. Furthermore, it must also create an environment where good health fundamentals for physical and intellectual developments from infancy to childhood and maturity exist.
Keywords : Breastfeeding, Promotion
