FOR RELEASE: July 22, 2002
CONTACT: Mary Jane Richardson, RD, LN
605-782-3131 

Department of Health promotes breastfeeding for healthier infants and families

     "Increasing breastfeeding rates to improve infant and family health in South Dakota is a Department of Health goal," says Mary Jane Richardson, a Nutrition Consultant for the Department of Health. 

     Breast milk provides the best nutrition for infants and also protects against specific infections, diseases and allergies. It also promotes maternal and infant bonding, which can mean a happier and closer family.

     "Research shows that breast milk enhances babies' growth, brain development and physical development, helping get them off to a good start in life," said Richardson. "The health benefits of breastfeeding can also mean lower health care costs and reduced employer costs. Parents don’t have to take as much time off from work if their child is sick less due to the immunity provided by breast milk."

     Richardson said August 1-7 has been proclaimed World Breastfeeding Week in South Dakota by Governor William J. Janklow to recognize its importance as a health issue. Participants in the observance are the members of the South Dakota Breastfeeding Coalition which includes the Department of Health, SDSU Cooperative Extension Service, the Indian Tribal Organization WIC programs, Northern Plains Healthy Start, Early Head Start, LaLeche League, Sioux Valley Hospital, Avera McKennan Hospital, Rapid City Regional Hospital, SDSU College of Nursing, USD School of Medicine, Sacred Heart Medical Clinic, independent lactation consultants and practicing physicians.

     To learn more about breastfeeding resources, contact a local Community Health Services office. The Department of Health web site also offers a series of pamphlets, Breastfeeding Basics, on its web site at www.state.sd.us/doh/Pubs/index.htm.