If all babies were exclusively breastfed for about the first six months of life, then the deaths of more than 1 million infants a year would be prevented. The six prime messages in this chapter can help to avert that threat and promote the healthy growth of young children.
Many mothers lack confidence in their own ability to breastfeed.
They need the encouragement and practical support of fathers, health workers, relatives and friends, women's groups, the mass media, trade unions and employers. See the AIDS chapter for more information. Breastmilk alone is the best possible food and drink for a baby. No other food or drink is needed for about the first six months of life. Babies should start to breastfeed as soon as possible after birth.