Exclusive Breastfeeding Prevents Breast Cancer — Olugbade

T The Consultant Paediatrician at the General Hospital, Ijede, Dr. Olufunke Olugbade, has called on breastfeeding mothers and pregnant women to support the Lagos State Government’s advocacy on exclusive breastfeeding.

She made this appeal during an event at the hospital to mark the 2025 World Breastfeeding Week, held annually from August 1 to 7.

This year’s theme, set by the World Health Organization (WHO), is “Prioritise Breastfeeding, Create Sustainable Support Systems.”

Highlighting the numerous benefits, Dr. Olugbade said, “Exclusive breastfeeding prevents a woman from being diagnosed with breast cancer, helps the mother’s body heal appropriately and get back to its normal physiological state, is cost-effective, helps in the development of the intelligence quotient of the baby, reduces the risk of infectious diseases, strengthens maternal bonding, and boosts the baby’s immune system, among other benefits.”

She urged mothers to take the message beyond the hospital walls by educating others and making exclusive breastfeeding a community priority.