Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain today said there is no alternative to breast milk for ensuring the good health of children. He made the remark while addressing the inaugural session of the World Breastfeeding Week 2026 at the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery in Dhaka. The event, observed from August 1 to August 7, 2026, aims to raise public awareness about breastfeeding with the theme 'Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works'. The function was attended by Health Secretary Md Quamruzzaman Chowdhury, Prime Minister's Special Assistant on Health Dr SM Ziauddin Haider, Director General of the Directorate General of Health Services Professor Dr Pravath Chandra Biswas, Additional Secretary (Global Health Division) of the Health Ministry Sheikh Momena Moni, and Director of the Public Health Nutrition Institute Dr Mohammad Yunus Ali.
FAQs on Breast Milk and Children's Health
[{"question":"Why is breast milk important for children's health?","answer":"Breast milk is crucial for children's health as it provides essential nutrients and antibodies that help in the growth and development of babies. It is especially important during the first 4-5 months after birth."},{"question":"What is the significance of colostrum?","answer":"Colostrum, the first milk produced after delivery, is rich in protein and antibodies, making it vital for the baby's initial immune protection and growth."},{"question":"How does the lack of breastfeeding affect children?","answer":"The lack of breastfeeding can lead to malnutrition and weakened immune systems in children, increasing their vulnerability to diseases and raising the child mortality rate."},{"question":"What are the alternatives to breast milk?","answer":"While there are alternatives like formula milk, Health Minister Sakhawat Husain stressed that homemade balanced food is more suitable for children after six months. Formula milk should be regulated and used only when necessary."}]
