Feeding selection, including baby-friendly hospital initiative

A recent review by the US Government Accountability Office (GAO) reports that infant formula marketing strategies can discourage breastfeeding, especially among low-income mothers. Some formula marketing materials include phrases like, “WIC-approved” about some formulas, implying that they are effective in treating colic. (US GAO, 2006) The full report is available at www.gao.gov. (Search for GAO-06-282)

The World Health Organization (WHO) suggests changes to promote breastfeeding, “The Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding.” These are included in the WHO Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative designation and also in the CDC Guide to Breastfeeding Intervention.