World Breastfeeding Week

MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON BREAST CANCER OVERVIEW-CAUSES AND SYMPTOMS

Monday Health Burst, WHO, World Breastfeeding Week / cfhinitiative

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, with significant impact on health, families, and communities.¹

Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast tissue begin to grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor that can be felt as a lump or detected through imaging. While most breast cancers are invasive, meaning they have spread from the original ducts or lobules into surrounding breast tissue, there are also non-invasive types that remain confined to the ducts or lobules.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of breast cancer is not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified. Approximately 5-10% of breast cancers are linked to inherited gene mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2. Women with these mutations have a significantly higher risk of developing breast cancer.² Also, prolonged exposure to estrogen and progesterone, whether through early menstruation, late menopause, or hormone replacement therapy, can increase the risk of breast cancer. Additional risk factors are:

Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age, with most cases diagnosed in women over 50.

Family History: Women with a close relative (mother, sister, daughter) who has had breast cancer are at higher risk.

Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and lack of physical activity are modifiable risk factors that can contribute to breast cancer development.

Radiation Exposure: Women who have been exposed to radiation, particularly to the chest area, have an increased risk of breast cancer.

Early detection of breast cancer significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. However, symptoms can vary widely, and some women may not experience any noticeable symptoms at all. Common signs to watch for include:

Lump in the Breast or Underarm: A persistent lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area is often the first sign of breast cancer. Not all lumps are cancerous, but they should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Changes in Breast Shape or Size: Any unexplained change in the shape, size, or appearance of the breast should be taken seriously.

Nipple Changes: This includes inversion (pulling inward of the nipple), discharge (other than breast milk), or unusual scaling or redness.

Skin Changes: Dimpling, puckering, or redness of the skin over the breast, as well as any changes in texture, can be symptoms of breast cancer.

Breast Pain: While breast pain is more commonly associated with benign conditions, persistent or unexplained pain should be investigated.

Awareness of the causes and symptoms of breast cancer is key to early detection and successful treatment. Regular self-examinations, clinical breast exams, and mammograms are essential tools for catching breast cancer early. If you notice any changes in your breast, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider promptly. Understanding your risk factors and leading a healthy lifestyle can also help reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.

References

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON LEGAL RIGHTS AND REALITIES: PROTECTING BREASTFEEDING MOTHERS IN NIGERIA

Speak Wednesday, Women, World Breastfeeding Week / cfhinitiative

Breastfeeding is a fundamental right and a crucial aspect of infant health, but breastfeeding mothers often face challenges in public spaces and workplaces. Despite the significant benefits of breastfeeding for both mother and child, public stigma and discrimination against breastfeeding mothers remain prevalent. This social issue not only undermines the health and well-being of children but also infringes on the rights of mothers.

In Nigeria, legal protections exist to support nursing mothers, yet many mothers face discrimination and lack of support when attempting to breastfeed in public spaces or workplaces.

Many employers, particularly in the private sector, are either unaware of these laws or choose to ignore them. The informal sector, where a large percentage of Nigerian women work, is even less regulated, leaving many nursing mothers without legal protection.

Also, breastfeeding in public can provoke a range of reactions, from mild discomfort to outright hostility. Many mothers report feeling judged, embarrassed, or even harassed when they breastfeed outside the privacy of their homes.

Nigeria has made strides in establishing legal frameworks to protect breastfeeding mothers. They include:

Labour Act (S.54): This Act mandates that breastfeeding nursing workers are entitled to breastfeeding breaks of at least 30 minutes twice a day.
The Child Rights Act of 2003 provides that children have the right to be breastfed.
National Policy on Infant and Young Child Feeding: This policy promotes exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding up to two years or beyond, ensuring mothers have the support needed.
Public Health Laws: Various health policies emphasize the importance of breastfeeding and the need to create conducive environments for nursing mothers.

Although Nigeria has taken steps to protect breastfeeding mothers through the above legal frameworks, involving stronger legal protections, better enforcement, and cultural change are required. Furthermore, educating both employers and the public about the importance of breastfeeding and the legal rights of nursing mothers can reduce stigma and improve compliance.

It’s time to celebrate and support the natural act of breastfeeding, ensuring that no mother feels ashamed or discriminated against for nurturing her child in public or at work.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

#SpeakWednesday #BreastfeedingRights #HealthyBabiesHealthyNation #GenderEquality #GenderBias

REFERENCES:

Labour Act (Cap L1 LFN 2004):

– Nigerian Labour Act. (2004). Available at: [ILO Database of Labour Legislation] (https://www.ilo.org/dyn/natlex/docs/WEBTEXT/42156/67562/E90NGA01.htm).

National Policy on Infant and Young Child Feeding:

– Federal Ministry of Health, Nigeria. (2010). National Policy on Infant and Young Child Feeding in Nigeria. Available at: [Federal Ministry of Health Nigeria] (https://www.health.gov.ng/doc/IYCF_policy_2010.pdf).

Public Health Laws:

– Federal Ministry of Health, Nigeria. (2005). National Health Policy. Available at: [Federal Ministry of Health Nigeria] (https://www.health.gov.ng/index.php/documents/category/22-policies).

Impact of Public Stigma:

– World Health Organization. (2020). Breastfeeding. Available at: [WHO] (https://www.who.int/health-topics/breastfeeding#tab=tab_1).

– Nigerian Health Watch. (2018). Challenges of Breastfeeding in Nigeria. Available at: [Nigerian Health Watch] (https://nigeriahealthwatch.com/challenges-of-breastfeeding-in-nigeria/).

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON SYMPTOMS OF BREAST CANCER

Breast Care, Monday Health Burst, World Breastfeeding Week / cfhinitiative

Breast cancer is a disease in which abnormal breast cells grow out of control and form tumors. It is a global health concern that affects millions of women every year. According to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) data from 2020, breast cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide, significantly impacting diagnosis and mortality rates. As one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide, early detection and awareness are crucial in combating its devastating effects.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), in 2020, an alarming 2.3 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer tragically; there were 685,000 deaths attributed to the disease globally. This indicates the urgent need for awareness, education, and early detection measures to combat the devastating impact of breast cancer on women’s lives. It is also worth noting that by the end of 2020, approximately 7.8 million women diagnosed with breast cancer within the past five years were still living, underlining the persistent challenges posed by this cancer even after initial diagnosis and treatment.

Breast cancer can manifest through various symptoms, but one of the most common signs is the presence of a lump or an area of enlarged breast tissue. While not all breast lumps are cancerous, it is crucial to have them examined by a medical professional to rule out any potential malignancy. Beyond lumps, other symptoms to watch for include:

1. Breast Lump: A palpable lump or an area of enlarged breast tissue is often the first noticeable sign of breast cancer. While not all lumps are cancerous, consulting a medical professional for evaluation is crucial.
2. Thickening or Swelling: An unexplained thickening or swelling in part of the breast can indicate an underlying issue. This change might be subtle, so regular self-examinations are essential.
3. Skin Changes: Breast cancer can lead to skin changes such as irritation, dimpling, or pitting. Redness, rash-like textures, or flaky skin around the nipple or breast area should not be ignored.
4. Nipple Abnormalities: Changes in the nipple, such as inversion or pain, could indicate an underlying issue. Any discharge from the nipple that is not breast milk, particularly if it includes blood, should be evaluated by a medical professional.
5. Alterations in Breast Shape or Size: Any noticeable change in the size or shape of the breast, particularly if it’s limited to one breast, should raise concern and prompt a medical evaluation.
6. Breast or Nipple Pain: Persistent pain or discomfort in any area of the breast, including the nipple, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

The importance of early detection cannot be overstated. Detecting breast cancer at an early stage significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and positive outcomes. Regular breast self-examinations, clinical screenings, and mammograms are pivotal in identifying potential issues.

Breast cancer is a formidable challenge that affects millions of women worldwide. Recognizing the symptoms, encouraging regular self-examinations and screenings, and advocating for improved resources and awareness are all essential components in the fight against breast cancer. By spreading awareness and knowledge, we can work together to minimize the global burden of breast cancer and improve the well-being of those affected by this condition.

Monday Health Burst is an initiative of CFHI to address issues of basic health concern. Join us every Monday on all our social media platforms for more episodes.

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ONBENEFITS OF BREASTFEEDING FOR MOTHERS

Exclusive Breastfeeding, Monday Health Burst, World Breastfeeding Week / cfhinitiative

Breastfeeding, the natural act of nourishing an infant with breast milk, has been an integral part of human history for centuries. Beyond its well-known advantages for infants, breastfeeding offers many remarkable benefits for mothers. The journey of motherhood is enriched through this bond that not only nurtures the child but also contributes to the physical and emotional well-being of the mother.

Welcome to Monday’s Health Burst! In today’s episode, we will explore the benefits of breastfeeding for mothers.

Breastfeeding offers several health benefits to mothers, including:

• Postpartum Weight Loss: Breastfeeding burns extra calories, aiding in weight loss after childbirth.

• Uterine Contraction: It helps the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size faster by promoting uterine contractions.

• Reduced Risk of Certain Cancers: Breastfeeding has been linked to a decreased risk of breast and ovarian cancers.

• Bone Health: Women who breastfeed may have improved bone density in the years following childbirth.

• Reduced Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: Breastfeeding may lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

• Cardiovascular Health: It can contribute to improved heart health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

• Emotional Well-being: Breastfeeding can enhance the release of hormones that promote maternal bonding and reduce postpartum depression.

Breastfeeding is not only a gift to the child but also a precious gift to the mother. Its physical, emotional, and psychological benefits contribute to the overall well-being of mothers during the postpartum period and beyond. The bond forged through breastfeeding enhances the mother’s self-esteem, emotional stability, and a sense of purpose while reducing the risk of various diseases and fostering a healthier lifestyle.

Monday Health Burst is an initiative of CFHI to address issues of basic health concern. Join us every Monday on all our social media platforms for more episodes.

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It’s World Breastfeeding Week!

Breast Care, Exclusive Breastfeeding, SDG, Special Events, WHO, World Breastfeeding Week / cfhinitiative

Globally, 3 in 5 babies are not breastfed in the first hour of life – WHO. Breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure child health and survival. Breastmilk is the ideal food for infants. It is safe and contains antibodies which help protect against many common childhood illnesses.

#WBW2022 #WABA #worldbreastfeedweek2022 #SDGs

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST

Breast Care, Exclusive Breastfeeding, Gender, Health, Viral Hepatitis, WHO, Women, World Breastfeeding Week / cfhinitiative

BREASTFEEDING WITH HEPATITIS B INFECTION

Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) which is transmitted by blood, semen or other body fluid from an infected person. A pregnant woman with hepatitis B can infect the fetus through the placenta especially in cases of preterm labour, depending on the mother’s viral load. At birth and during breastfeeding, infants may also be infected with the virus through contact with blood and body fluids.

According to World Health Organization, Breastfeeding has been suggested as an additional mechanism by which infants may acquire HBV infection, because small amounts of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) have been detected in some samples of breastmilk. This study also found no association between maternal e-antigen status and transmission rates. In other words, any risk of transmission associated with breastmilk is negligible compared to the high risk of exposure to maternal blood and body fluids at birth. This is because breast pathology such as cracked or bleeding nipples or lesions with serous exudates could expose the infant to infectious doses of HBV.

To avoid any form of HBV transmission from mother to child. Center for Disease Control (CDC) opined that all infants must receive hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) and the first dose of hepatitis B vaccine within 12 hours of birth. The second dose of vaccine should be given at age 1–2 months, and the third dose at age 6 months. This includes infants born to HBV-infected mothers. The infant should be tested after completion of the vaccine series at age 9–12 months, to determine if the vaccine worked and that the infant is not infected with HBV through exposure to the mother’s blood during the birth process.

In conclusion, the risk of HBV mother-to-child transmission through breastfeeding is negligible if infants born to HBV-positive mothers receive the HBIG/HBV vaccine at birth. Hence, hepatitis B infected mothers can breastfeed the babies provided the necessary precautions are taken. There is no need to delay breastfeeding until the infant is fully immunized.

Monday Health Burst is an initiative of Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) to tackle issues of basic health concerns. Join us every Monday for more health related articles on all our social media platforms.

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST

Breast Care, Gender, Health, Women, World Breastfeeding Week / cfhinitiative

MONDAY HEALTH BURST – BREAST CARE

Breasts come in different shapes and sizes. Most women have changes in the breasts at different times during their lifetime.

After delivery, the breast naturally produces milk for the newborn to feed and to avoid contaminating the food, breast care is a necessity. Hence, in today’s Monday Health Burst, simple tips that can help prevent issues like cracked nipples, inflammation and relieve discomfort from engorged breasts are discussed below.

Firstly, remember to practice good hygiene: Wash hands before breastfeeding, wash breasts during bath, avoid using soap on the breasts to prevent loss of natural oils and cracked skin over the area.
Support: Wear supportive braziers to keep from developing back ache, but not too tight to allow the breast air. Also, to prevent infection and inflammation of the breast, change braziers or brazier pads regularly.
Latch and release: As earlier noted in the previous article, a child needs to latch properly to the breast during breastfeeding to avoid injuries or pain on the mother’s nipples. Also, the removal of the child from breast or release of the breast is just as important to prevent infection and inflammation.
Moisturize: Moisturize the breast after breastfeeding with the breast milk on the nipples! This helps to prevent drying out and cracking of the skin over the nipple areas.
Swollen? Yes, this may occur during breastfeeding and can cause the breast to harden and the milk ducts to become blocked. A cold compress can help to relieve the pain or inflammation and a warm water breast bath (without soap) can help open up the ducts.

In conclusion, breastfeeding is from the breast and as such regular breast self-examinations is essential. This care can help identify earlier blocked ducts which may appear as lumps that go away with time. Breast lumps, cysts, mastitis and painful breasts can occur in many women. Hence, knowing what is normal, how to conduct a breast check and when to see a doctor is very important especially in cases where lumps persist.

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST

1 Comment / Exclusive Breastfeeding, Health, Women, World Breastfeeding Week / cfhinitiative

EXCLUSIVE BREASTFEEDING

Exclusive breastfeeding is defined as feeding infants with only breast milk, except drops or syrups consisting of vitamins, mineral supplements or medicine. It could be directly from the breast or expressed.

Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for a period of 6 months after which solid foods can be gradually introduced while still continuing breastfeeding for up to 2 years.

Find below some of the health benefits of breast milk/exclusive breastfeeding:

Breast milk provides the ideal nutrition for infants. It has a nearly perfect mix of vitamins, protein, and fat a baby needs to grow in a form more easily digestible than infant formula.
Breast milk contains antibodies that help babies fight off viruses and bacteria.
It lowers a baby’s risk of having asthma or allergies.
Babies who are breastfed exclusively for the first 6 months have fewer ear infections, respiratory illnesses, and bouts of diarrhea.
Breastfeeding helps burn extra calories, so it can help the mother lose pregnancy weight faster.
Exclusive breastfeeding releases the hormone oxytocin, which helps the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size and may reduce uterine bleeding after birth.
Breastfeeding lowers risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer and osteoporosis.
Finally, breastfeeding strengthens bonding by giving regular time to relax quietly with the newborn.

Aside the fact that breast milk is easily accessible and more affordable, it is the best source of nutrition for a healthy term infant.

CFHI Monday Health Burst is an initiative of the organization to tackle issues of basic health concerns. Join us every Monday for more health related articles on all our social media platforms.

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Gender, Health, WHO, Women, World Breastfeeding Week / cfhinitiative

BREAST FEEDING METHODS

Breastfeeding is the act of feeding an infant with human breast milk. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the antibodies in breast milk can help a baby resist infections. Hence, it is recommended for all infants.

Successful breastfeeding depends on the positioning and attachment of the baby to the breast. A baby needs to be able to take a large mouthful of breast milk and feed effectively without causing any discomfort. Some of the breastfeeding positions that can be adopted include: Laid-back breastfeeding or reclined position, cradle hold, cross-cradle hold, rugby ball hold, side-lying position, upright breastfeeding or koala hold, dangle feeding, nursing in a sling, and double rugby ball hold.

LAID-BACK BREASTFEEDING OR RECLINED POSITION – The laid-back breastfeeding position, also known as biological nurturing, where baby is placed on mother’s chest or tummy as soon as he is born.

CRADLE HOLD – This is the classic position most people picture when the thought of breastfeeding comes to mind. It involves sitting upright with the baby positioned on the side, and the head and neck laying along the mother’s forearm. The baby’s body should be against the mother’s stomach in a tummy-to-mummy position.

CROSS-CRADLE HOLD – This looks similar to the cradle hold but mother’s arms switch roles so the baby’s body lies along the mother’s opposite forearm. The aim is to support the baby around the neck and shoulders to allow him/her to tilt the head prior to latch.

RUGBY BALL HOLD – In this position also known as the underarm or clutch, mother sits with the baby resting along her forearm. The baby’s body tucks alongside the mother’s side with feet towards the back of the chair or whatever the mother is sitting on.

SIDE-LYING POSITION – Ideal for relaxed night feeds and breastfeeding in bed or on the sofa. Mother and baby need to lie on the sides next to one another, belly-to-belly. Side-lying can be more comfortable than sitting if one had a caesarean or stitches.

UPRIGHT BREASTFEEDING OR KOALA HOLD – In this method, baby sits straddling mother’s thigh, or on her hip, with the baby’s spine and head upright as he/she feeds.

DANGLE FEEDING – It involves lying the baby on the back while the mother crouch over the child on all fours and dangle the nipple in the baby’s mouth.

NURSING IN A SLING – This can be done when carrying a baby in a front carrier or any kind of sling. Mothers must make sure she can see the baby’s face and chin are not pressed against the chest.

DOUBLE RUGBY BALL HOLD – The double rugby ball hold also known as the double clutch is a great breastfeeding position for twins, as the mother can feed them in tandem while having her hands relatively free.

DANCER HAND NURSING POSITION – Cup the breast with hand underneath, fingers on one side and thumb on the other, then edge the hand forwards so the thumb and index finger form a ‘U’ shape just in front of the breast. The three remaining fingers should continue to support the breast underneath. Rest the baby’s jaw on the thumb and index finger as he/she feeds with the chin at the bottom of the ‘U’. The mother’s thumb should gently hold one of the cheeks and index finger the other. This hold gives the baby enough support and the mother can easily have control over the position as well as a great view of the latch.

The most important part of successful breastfeeding is the latch. In a case where the child is not properly latched on to the breast, feedings could be painful which could lead to the baby not getting enough breast milk. Signs to confirm a good latch include; the circular movement of the jaw rather than rapid chin movement, wiggling ears, rounded cheeks, absence of clicking or smacking noises, tongue is seen when the bottom lip is pulled down, sound of swallowing, chin is seen touching the breast, when the baby comes off the breast, the nipple is not flattened or misshaped, any form of discomfort disappears as soon as the baby latches on, baby shows signs of satisfaction after breastfeeding.

In order to breastfeed successfully, it is important that the mothers and babies are relaxed and comfortable. Finding the most comfortable method will go a long way in ensuring successful breastfeeding.

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