08/03/2009-6

Uniondale, NY – In recognition of World Breastfeeding Week, August 1 through August 7, 2009, Nassau County Health Commissioner Dr. Maria Torroella Carney is announcing the department’s Workplace-friendly Lactation Pilot Program. A major barrier to breastfeeding is the difficulty a mother faces to continue breastfeeding when she returns to work. These difficulties include lack of facilities to pump and store milk during the workday and having sufficient break time to pump. This program aims to remove those barriers and create an environment that allows mothers to continue to work and breastfeed.

Breastfeeding has been proven to be the best source of nutrition to promote optimal growth and development of infants. The advantages of breastfeeding are not limited to the infant but benefit mothers, families and society as a whole. Breastfeeding protects babies from ear infections; it contains antibodies that can protect babies from bacterial and viral infections, reduces the risks of allergies, asthma, and obesity and is easier for most babies to digest. Mothers who breastfeed burn more calories, which helps her return to her pre-pregnancy weight, may reduce the risk of certain breast and ovarian cancers, may lessen the risk of developing osteoporosis and saves money. Breastfeeding saves on health care costs since breastfed babies typically need fewer sick care visits, prescriptions and hospitalizations. A breastfeeding friendly workplace contributes to a more productive workforce as these employees tend to have higher morale and miss work less often since their infants are sick less.

Nassau County Executive Suozzi’s Healthy Nassau Initiative and Nassau County Department of Health have partnered with Long Island Lactation Consultants Association (LILCA) to support and encourage mothers who wish to continue to breastfeed after returning to work. The department has dedicated a private room that is a secure, comfortable and supportive environment for expressing milk. “The goal of this program is to support our breastfeeding employees and set an example for a healthier Nassau County. Becoming a breastfeeding friendly workplace not only sets the precedent for other employers, but also helps Nassau County Department of Health become a more productive and attractive work environment, ultimately improving rates of breastfeeding and the overall health of mothers and babies in Nassau County” said Dr. Maria Torroella Carney.

Nassau County Department of Health Supports Their

Working Moms who Breastfeed