Jo-Anne Elder writes:
>Correlation is not the same as cause. On the other hand, to make the
>statement that "talking about the benefits of breastfeeding hasn't got
>us anywhere," is, in my opinion, very difficult to prove, given the
>increase in breastfeeding rates. More importantly, as far as I'm
>concerned, is that it vastly undermines the great work we have been
>doing so far.

Being a great admirer of Jo-Anne's, and a devoted breastfeeding
advocate, it pains me to think that my words have rubbed her or
anyone else the wrong way.  (I'm the one who said, "LLL and others
have been promoting bf on its 'benefits' for nearly 50 years now and
where has it gotten us? We have a nation of women who KNOW that bf is
best, but still choose not to.")

Please note that I didn't say we hadn't gotten *anywhere* with this
approach!  Breastfeeding rates have certainly risen, indeed they're
at the highest levels yet recorded in the US.  I am heartened by
this, and very proud of everyone who has worked to make it happen.
The last thing I want to do is undermine or diminish these
accomplishments.  The point I was aiming for above is that the
'positive' approach has not gotten us *all the way* to where we want
to be.  There is much left to accomplish.  My feeling is that, as far
as we have come by talking about the positives, a different approach
is needed to increase bf rates among people not impressed by the
'benefits.'

Warmly,
Margaret
Longmont, CO

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