Malkangiri, 7th Aug 2025: World Breastfeeding Week 2025 was observed at the Urban Primary Health Centre (PHC), Malkangiri.
Dr. M.M. Ad Hussen, District Public Health Officer, participated in the program and highlighted the benefits of breastfeeding, as well as the health issues faced by mothers and infants in its absence. He emphasized that exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months acts as a vital shield for infants, describing breast milk as “nectar-like” for newborns.
He further explained the following key points:
- Breastfeeding should begin within one hour of birth.
- No external food or liquids — such as water, honey, or sugar water — should be given during the first six months.
- The mother’s diet and hydration during this period must be carefully maintained.
- Breastfeeding significantly reduces the risk of breast and uterine cancers in mothers.
- The program was jointly organized by the Urban PHC, Family Welfare Department, and supported by various frontline health workers.
- Dr. Durga Prasad Raj and Dr. Om Prakash Sahu also shared insights on maternal and child health. As part of the event:
- A pledge ceremony and signature campaign promoting breastfeeding was held.
- Competitions related to breastfeeding awareness were conducted among women’s health groups, and prizes were distributed.
Those present and contributing to the success of the event included:
Dilip Kumar Nanda, Shivprasad Prahara, Bikhari Charan Baliyarsingh, Shyam Sundar Majhi, Mahesh Kumar Yadav, Kayaroline Dixit, Suprabha Kumari Padhi, along with women health workers, ASHA workers, and staff of the health center.