11-24-97 Healthy People 2010 Objectives Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion 200 Independence Ave, SW Washington DC 20201 HP 2010: I understand that objectives are currently being formulated for the year 2010. The Maternal-Infant Health objectives should very prominently include breastfeeding promotion, support, and education. A high breastfeeding initiation rate, with nursing for 2 yrs and beyond (as the World Health Organization recommends), should make a tremendous difference in the health of our children. To this end, a percent continuation rate at 12 months should be formulated. Breastfed babies receive optimum nutrition and experience less morbidity and mortality. The evidence is very compelling here. Unfortunately, the 2000 objectives have not been met, so much more work is needed. At the recent American Academy of Pediatrics convention here in New Orleans, doctors were informed that breastfeeding is good for mothers as well (helps prevent osteoporosis and reproductive cancers). Mothers breastfeeding optimally experience amenorrhea and better child spacing (fewer pregnancies). Breastfeeding is easier than artificial feeding, much less costly and produces little or no waste. Breastfeeding is clearly recognized as the optimal method of infant feeding and should be an integral part in the promotion of health in the U.S. as it is in the global health arena. Lactation consultants are health care professionals that provide breastfeeding support and services, and are skilled in the assessment and management of breastfeeding. Their unique contribution should be recognized as well. Sincerely, Laurie Wheeler, RNC, MN, IBCLC