Latest news, research on breastfeeding: What you need to know

August is Breastfeeding Awareness Month in the United States, with World Breastfeeding Week running Aug. 1 through Aug. 7. National, state and local medical organizations, coalitions and individual supporters mark the week by taking action, both online and in the real world, to advocate for pro-breastfeeding policy and practice changes.

Below is a listing of the latest research and news regarding breastfeeding. Here’s what you need to know:

The USPSTF has reported that primary care interventions were associated with an increased likelihood of breastfeeding

Breastfeeding support and education interventions targeting individuals in primary care were associated with a significantly higher likelihood of any and exclusive breastfeeding for up to 6 months, according to draft evidence released by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Read more.

Increased breastfeeding could save 820k lives every year worldwide

Strong political commitments and substantial economic investments at all levels, from national governments to local communities, are required in order to support and promote breastfeeding across the globe, which has the potential to save 820,000 lives, according to the authors of a two-part series published in The Lancet. Read more.

Benefits of breastfeeding very preterm infants are seen in the first month

A daily fluid intake that is at least 50% breast milk during the first month had a positive relationship with total brain tissue and cortical surface area among premature infants, according to data presented at the 2016 Pediatric Academic Societies Meeting. Read more.

ACOG recommends that OB/GYNs support mothers who opt for either breastfeeding or using formula

Obstetrician-gynecologists need to respect and support a woman’s decision on initiating or continuing breastfeeding, according to an opinion issued by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Read more.

Adolescent mothers are not receiving the recommended amount of breastfeeding support

Despite the U.S. Surgeon General’s recommendation that providers align their maternity care with the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative, including the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding, data suggest that from 2009 through 2011, self-reported prevalence of adolescent mothers receiving such guidance varied wildly. Read more.