Dominican Republic Infants Receive Exclusive Breastfeeding at Critically Low Rates

Exclusive breastfeeding rates in the Dominican Republic remain critically low, with only 19.2% of infants receiving this vital nutrition for the first six months of life. This figure significantly lags behind the World Health Organization's (WHO) target of 50% and falls below the average for Latin America and the Caribbean.

Despite advancements, moving from 4.7% in 2014 to 19.2% in 2025 according to the National Household Survey (Enhogar-MICS 2025), the country ranks among those with the lowest rates in the region. Furthermore, only 22.4% of newborns initiate breastfeeding within the first hour of life, a practice crucial for establishing successful breastfeeding and reducing infant illness.

"That only two out of ten babies receive exclusive breastfeeding during their first six months must mobilize us as a country. Breastfeeding saves lives, strengthens child development, and protects the health of mothers," stated Carlos Carrera, UNICEF's representative in the Dominican Republic. The UN agency highlighted that breast milk provides essential nutrients, boosts the immune system, aids brain development, and reduces disease risks for both infants and mothers.

UNICEF also pointed to disparities in infant nutrition, noting that children aged 6-23 months whose mothers have primary education are less likely to receive a minimally diverse diet compared to those whose mothers have university education. The agency called for reinforced public policies, enhanced health services, expanded maternity protections in the workplace, and supportive family and community environments to facilitate the initiation and continuation of exclusive breastfeeding.

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That only two out of ten babies receive exclusive breastfeeding during their first six months must mobilize us as a country. Breastfeeding saves lives, strengthens child development, and protects the health of mothers.