I've been approached by a formula milk co. rep. about their promotion of
breastfeeding among Hong Kong mothers. They would very much like to
participate & co-join with our celebration of World Breastfeeding Week. I
straight away said I don't think our committee would approve of that.
However she was very persistant and said their company do not make infant
formula but only formula for adults. Perhaps it's just my "allergy" to
formula companies but I still don't feel comfortable to see her next week.

I get irritated when the TV formula advertisement comes on and encouraging
pregnant women to drink lots of milk formula (with its added folic acid for
the baby's growth). And now there is this new formula to help lactating
mothers! I've been advising mothers who have a family history of allergy to
avoid drinking fresh milk and formula so as to reduce the allergens getting
through their milk to their baby. Does anyone have research documentation to
support this?

Historically, the Chinese have breastfed without dairy products, why are
they doing it now? Their diet has been adequate within the culture
practices. Don't believe me....look at the population of China!! Just like
everything else, people here are quick to copy the Western diets and trendy
ways.....MacDonalds and formula feeding included. The incidence of childhood
asthma,eczema and allergies have increased tremendously. However HK can be
proud of its low infant mortality rate with most of the babies being formula
fed and good medical care! So it's hard sell for breastfeeding. The trend of
BF is slowing catching on after the last few years of promotion and training
by BFHI HK Asso.


Chee Yuet-Oi, MEd.St,BAppSc,RN,RM,Fam.Plan.Cert.,FRCNA,IBCLC
Educator, Midwife, Lactation Consultant
Project Co-ordinator,BFHI HK Assoc.
Tel & Fax: (852) 2603 6137