Cambodia Faces Sharp Decline in Breastfeeding Rates, Threatening Child Health: Survey
Breastfeeding rates in Cambodia have sharply declined, posing a threat to child health, according to the latest Cambodia Demographic Health Survey (CDHS 2021-22). The survey, conducted by UNICEF, World Vision International Cambodia, and their partners, reveals alarming statistics on the decline of early and exclusive breastfeeding.
The data shows that early breastfeeding, which involves giving a baby breast milk within one hour of birth, dropped from 66 percent to 54 percent over the past decade. Similarly, exclusive breastfeeding, where babies receive only breast milk for the first six months of life, fell from 74 percent to 50 percent. This downward trend is concerning because breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure child health and survival in the early stages of life.
Global estimates suggest that if breastfeeding rates were increased to near universal levels, approximately 820,000 children’s lives could be saved annually. In addition to its life-saving benefits, breastfeeding also promotes a child’s learning abilities and helps prevent obesity and chronic diseases later in life.
Breast milk is considered one of the most valuable gifts a mother can give to her child. Infants who are breastfed have higher chances of survival, greater protection against life-threatening diseases, and improved overall health as they grow into adulthood.
To address this concerning decline, UNICEF representative to Cambodia, Will Parks, emphasizes the need for empowering mothers with the knowledge and ability to breastfeed in various settings, including health facilities, homes, and workplaces. By doing so, all children can be given the best start in life, ensuring the future generations of Cambodia thrive.
The CDHS 2021-22 highlights several factors that may have contributed to the decrease in breastfeeding rates. These factors include aggressive marketing of breast milk substitutes, such as infant formula, limited awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding compared to substitutes, and insufficient support for breastfeeding mothers as they return to work. Importantly, the decline in breastfeeding was observed before the COVID-19 pandemic, indicating a need for urgent action.
Grana Pu Selvi, a technical lead for integrated nutrition at World Vision Cambodia, stresses the shared responsibility of breastfeeding, calling for support from all parts of society. Selvi urges everyone to invest in breastfeeding to create a better and more sustainable Cambodia.
Women make up 47.1 percent of Cambodia’s total labor force. However, the country currently offers only 90 days of paid maternity leave, falling short of the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) recommended minimum of 18 weeks (126 days).
Prak Sophonneary, a secretary of state at the Ministry of Health, assures that officials are actively promoting breastfeeding practices for infants and young children. She also calls on health workers to follow Sub-Decree 133, which aims to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding.
To combat the alarming decline in breastfeeding rates, Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) partners in Cambodia are collaborating to urge the government to enforce existing legislation on the marketing of breast milk substitutes, implement better maternity leave provisions, improve breastfeeding counseling and support services, and enhance public awareness and community engagement in breastfeeding.
The decline in breastfeeding rates in Cambodia is a concerning development that demands immediate attention. Efforts to promote and support breastfeeding, coupled with comprehensive policies and increased awareness, are crucial to ensure the health and well-being of the country’s children. By prioritizing breastfeeding, Cambodia can establish a strong foundation for the future generations to thrive.
