Supporting Health Equity for National Breastfeeding Month

Did you know that August is National Breastfeeding Month? The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that infants be exclusively breastfed or chest-fed for about the first six months, with continued feeding while introducing appropriate complementary foods for one year or longer.

Unfortunately, many mothers and birthing people struggle to reach their breastfeeding goals, specifically Black birthing people. Black women have the lowest breastfeeding initiation rates (64%) and the shortest breastfeeding duration (roughly 6.5 weeks) of all ethnic groups.

Although several factors contribute to this, the major cause is equity gaps in access to resources and support for breastfeeding mothers and birthing people. Black Breastfeeding Week, an event highlighting the significant racial disparity in breastfeeding rates, is August 25-31.

CHC will be raising awareness of National Breastfeeding Month and highlighting the incredible work of our Black Birthing Initiative, in partnership with Elevance Health and community-based organizations.