Dear ATC:  Thank you for an informative and, on the whole, balanced
report about human milk banking.  In light of ever expanding information
about the complexities of human milk and of its many benefits for
children, it is encouraging to hear that the utilization of milk banks is
increasing.  Despite the comments of Dr. Stan Zlotkin that the benefits
of human milk are outweighed by the risks and costs, there is good
evidence not only that heat treatment destroy viruses, including HIV,
which is known to be very heat sensitive, but that many of the beneficial
components of human milk including most immunoglobulins, enzymes and
growth factors are at least partly preserved. (Riordan J and Auerbach KG.
Breastfeeding and Human Lactation. Jones and Bartlett, 1993, pp.599-604).
I also wish to take issue with Linda Wertheimer's opening assertion that
"most American mothers breast feed their infants".  In 1993, 56% of
American mothers were breastfeeding (with and without supplemental
formula) at hospital discharge, and the number was down to 40% at 2
months, 26% at 4 months and 19% at 6 months.  There is now overwhelming
research evidence for the importance of breastfeeding exclusively (i.e.
with no supplemental formula or foods) for the first 4-6 months, then
continuing to breastfeed with complementary solids to one year of age
(that is the position of the American Academy of Pediatrics).  This is
still, in effect, very much a bottle-feeding society, contrary to Ms.
Wertheimer's depiction.  Perhaps when breastfeeding rates and duration
increase in accordance with the scientific research, then there will be
enough donated human milk to bring the costs down, and more of the babies
who need it will get this precious gift.  Sincerely, Alicia Dermer, MD,
IBCLC. [log in to unmask]  69 County Road 516, Old Bridge, NJ 08857.
(908)254-1515; (908)651-0774.