2003 Breastfeeding Challenge

Mothers across Nova Scotia will compete in the 2003 International Quintessence Breastfeeding Challenge on Saturday, Oct. 4, to promote the benefits of breastfeeding during World Breastfeeding Week. At 11 a.m. the participants will attempt to set the Quintessence World Record for the most infants breastfeeding at one time.

"Breastfeeding reduces an infant's risk of illness and is also beneficial for the mother's health," said Health Promotion Minister Rodney MacDonald. "This event is a great way to promote the importance of breastfeeding and to reinforce the health benefits."

This year the challenge includes sites from Nunavut to Florida and from Newfoundland to California. There are over 70 sites registered across Canada and seven are in Nova Scotia: Amherst, Antigonish, Halifax, Sydney (two sites), Wolfville, and Yarmouth.

The winner of the challenge will be determined by calculating the number of participating mothers and infants at each site in ratio to the province's birth rate.

The challenge presents a great opportunity for breastfeeding mothers to meet and share their experiences. Activities have been organized for each location to celebrate and show support for breastfeeding mothers and their children.

"We want to see lots of breastfeeding mothers come out," said Jennifer Joseph, the Breastfeeding Challenge organizer for Nova Scotia. "They're the first-hand account of how important breastfeeding is."

Breastfeeding has numerous nutritional, physical, developmental, and emotional health benefits for infants. There are also many benefits for the mother, such as reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancers, easier weight loss to pre-pregnancy levels, and various psychological benefits.

Although studies show that breastfeeding is in the best interest of both mothers and their babies, many women choose to use formula. The Breastfeeding Challenge is designed to celebrate the benefits of breastfeeding and to demonstrate the community's support for breastfeeding mothers.

For information on the Quintessence Breastfeeding Challenge, see the Web site at www.babyfriendly.ca . All breastfeeding mothers and their families are welcome to attend the challenges in their communities. For information on the Nova Scotia sites call 902- 470-7113.

The 2003 International Quintessence Breastfeeding Challenge is being presented by the Office of Health Promotion in partnership with the IWK Health Centre and the Nova Scotia District Health Authorities.