The degree that the greek institutional framework allow and support mothers' free decision about breastfeeding

International Organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and Unicef aiming at the establishment of a minimum institutional framework which will guarantee the free and autonomous exercise of the right to breastfeeding, initiated the „Innocenti Declaration?. Aim: The aim of the study was to present the applicable legislative and wider institutional framework of breastfeeding in Greece and assess whether the aforementioned institutional framework and practices facilitate, allow and support mothers' free decision as regards the diet of their children. Method: Last decade?s papers (declarations and decisions) of WHO, UNICEF and other organizations, related to policies of promotion of the breastfeeding worldwide as well as relevant Greek Legislation, were explored. Results: Although parts of the „Innocenti Declaration? have been adopted by Greek legislation, the content and application of such legislation appears to be lacking in relation to controlling and regulating the marketing and distribution of breast milk substitutes. Moreover, health care practices and procedures as implemented by hospitals and clinics alongside health care professionals? training appear to be deviating from the Declaration?s „?Ten Steps for successful breastfeeding??. Conclusion: The Greek institutional framework do not appear to create the appropriate environment and the safest conditions for the proper information and support of the parents about breastfeeding.

Author(s): Daglas Maria

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