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Updated: Aug 24, 2026

A Common Marmoset Model of Mother-Infant Intervention for Breastfeeding Disorders in the Presence of Paternal Inhibition and Maternal Neglect
Published on: September 22, 2023
The Baby-Friendly way: the best breastfeeding start
Barbara L Philipp1, Anne Merewood
1Boston University School of Medicine, MA, USA. Bobbi.Philipp@bmc.org
Insights
The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative improves breastfeeding rates and reduces infant illness. Universal implementation of its "Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding" is recommended for better infant health outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Pediatrics
- Maternal Health
Background:
- The World Health Organization and UNICEF launched the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) in 1991.
- BFHI designation requires adherence to the "Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding."
- This initiative aims to promote and support breastfeeding globally.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical development of the BFHI.
- To describe the core components and criteria of the BFHI.
- To evaluate evidence supporting the widespread adoption of BFHI.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of the BFHI's evolution.
- Analysis of the "Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding."
- Examination of epidemiological data on breastfeeding and infant health outcomes.
Main Results:
- BFHI implementation is associated with increased breastfeeding initiation and duration.
- Hospitals with BFHI policies show decreased rates of infant illness.
- Evidence supports the positive impact of BFHI on infant and maternal health.
Conclusions:
- The BFHI is a successful public health intervention.
- Universal implementation of BFHI is crucial for improving infant health.
- Continued support and adherence to BFHI guidelines are recommended.
Abstract:
In 1991, the World Health Organization and the United Nations Children's Fund launched the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative. "Baby-Friendly" is a designation that a hospital or birthing site can receive by demonstrating compliance with the "Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding." Baby-Friendly is more than a catchy name or a snappy slogan. With Baby-Friendly policies in place, breastfeeding initiation and duration rates increase and infant illness decreases. This article reviews the development of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative, describes the components of the initiative, and evaluates current data that favor the universal implementation of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative.
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