Contemporary Patterns of Breast Feeding

In recent years the importance of breast - feeding as a basis for healthy child development has become increasingly recognised Evidence has accumulated on the unique nutritional and immunological properties of breast-milk, as well as on the effects of breast-feeding on reproductive function and mother/child bonding, and concern has been expressed about the possible adverse consequences of a decline in breast-feeding (and a simultaneous increase in the use of breast-milk substitutes) on the well being of children, particularly in developing countries.