I have recently received a notification re the International Society for
research on Human Milk and Lactation conference "Bioactive Substances in
Human Milk". The flyer states "Support for this meeting is generously
provided by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development,
The H.J. Heinz Company Foundation, Wyeth-Ayerst Research, Neose
Technologies Inc., Ross Products Division of Abbott Laboratories, Genzyme
Transgenics Corp., Nestle USA, Milupa and the Mead Johnson Nutritional
Group."
The flyer then states "Acceptance of support does not imply endorsement of
specific products or activities by ISRHML"
I can not believe that this group could be so naive. Whether they intend it
or not, accepting sponsorship from these formula companies does endorse
their products and their activities. The list reads like a whos who of the
worst violators of the WHO code.
In May of 1996 the World Health Assembly passed a resolution urging health
institutions, professionals and ministries in all member states to prevent
the baby food industry from providing financial or other support for health
workers. (WHA Resolution 49.15)
Less than twelve months later we have a group involved in breastfeeding
research doing just that.
I, for one will be writing them telling their where they can put their
invitation and why. Has any one else received the same invitation?
Laureen Lawlor-Smith
IBCLC BMBS
South Australia