This is a copy of my letter to intelihealth at John Hopkins. So far
I have  only received an automated generic response saying my
comments will be read and that I may not receive any reply.

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http://www.intelihealth.com

************

I have questions about your link with Chicago Hope.  I understand
that there is an upcoming episode which will include a seriously
dehydrated breastfeeding baby.  A news release implied that the
"dangers of breastfeeding" will be discussed through the link to
your site.

The wording of this phrase is very alarming.  There are no "dangers"

of breastfeeding.  There are only dangers to all babies of receiving

inadequate nutrition (via breast or bottle) because of insufficient
information and support.  Parents need adequate information and
support from well educated health care workers who can teach them
how to breastfeed, how to know their infant is getting enough milk,
when to get help and where to get help.  There are specialists in
lactation who can be sought out for assistance.  They are called
International Board Certified Lactation Consultants.  There are also

a number of volunteer organizations which help parents including La
Leche League International.

The potential for sensationalization of the "risks" of breastfeeding

through this episode is very worrying.  I have noticed that there is

very little breastfeeding information on  your site or through your
links.

Would you be willing to hear about some accurate and up to date
sites with information by leading lactation experts?

For accurate information to use on your site and for your staff:

Articles by Dr. Jack Newman:
http://www.erols.com/cindyrn/drjack0.htm

AAP statement on breastfeeding:
http://www.AAp.org/policy/re9729.html

Linda J Smith IBCLC:   http://www.bflrc.com/bf_mgt.htm

Tom Hale's Breastfeeding and Pharmacology site:
http://neonatal.ttuhsc.edu/lact/

Another great article by IBCLC's:
http://www.fix.net/~rprewett/evidence.html


Links for parents looking for information and support:

www.lalecheleague.org

http://www.erols.com/cindyrn/drjack0.htm

www.promom.com

www.parentsplace.com

adoptive breastfeeding page: http://www.bflrc.com/bf_mgt.htm

Lists on good links:

http://www.leron-line.com/internetsites.htm

http://www.prairienet.org/community/health/laleche/otherInternet.html

Please take this opportunity to provide accurate information about
breastfeeding rather than allowing this show to unnecessarily scare
vulnerable parents into choosing inferior, but well marketed,
artificial feeding products.

Thank you for your time.
*******
--
Janet Vandenberg, RN, BScN, (and waiting for the mail)
Newmarket, Ontario, Canada
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