Panama Concludes Breastfeeding Week with Family Fair and Mass Nursing Event

Dozens of mothers and families gathered at the Omar Park Clubhouse for a Family Breastfeeding Fair and the 14th Grand "Tetada" event, organized by the Ministry of Health (Minsa). The event marked the conclusion of World Breastfeeding Week.

Vice Minister of Health Manuel Zambrano Chang emphasized the "incalculable value" of breastfeeding for the nation's future, highlighting its crucial role in neurodevelopment, immune system strengthening, maintaining adequate weight, and promoting skin-to-skin contact. He also noted the collaborative efforts with private companies, the Chamber of Commerce, universities, and institutions focused on maternal and child health.

The event's theme was "Breastfeeding, a sustainable start in any circumstance, let's strengthen actions that work." Deputy Paulette Thomas underscored the benefits for both the mother-child bond and infant immune development. She specifically praised colostrum and questioned past promotion of infant formula over breastfeeding, stating the two feeding methods are not equivalent. Thomas viewed the event as a successful collaboration with positive societal impact.

Edgardo Ureña from the Ministry of Health explained the fair aimed to promote breastfeeding and equip families with tools, stressing that support should extend beyond the mother to the entire family environment. "The role of breastfeeding is not just the mother's, it's the whole family's," he stated. The fair included pregnant women, fathers, and children of various ages, reinforcing the family-centered approach.

Dr. Mitzila Rosas reported that over 300 people attended, including about 80 breastfeeding mothers and pregnant women. She advised that breastfeeding promotion should begin during pregnancy, with exclusive breastfeeding recommended for the first six months, continuing up to two years or longer with complementary feeding. Rosas reiterated that breastfeeding is a collective commitment, not solely a woman's responsibility.

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The role of breastfeeding is not just the mother's, it's the whole family's.