Adarsha Hospital Udupi Organizes Awareness Program for World Breastfeeding Week

Adarsha Hospital in Udupi, a unit of Adarsha Charitable Trust, recently organized a comprehensive awareness program to observe World Breastfeeding Week 2026, held from August 1 to 7. The initiative, conducted in partnership with the District Health and Family Welfare Department, Udupi, Koosamma Shambhu Shetty Memorial Haji Abdulla Mother and Child Hospital, National Health Mission, and Inner Wheel Club, Udupi, focused on promoting and educating the community about the invaluable benefits of breastfeeding. Dignitaries inaugurated the event by lighting a ceremonial lamp, symbolizing the commencement of the week-long efforts. Speakers at the program, including Dr. G.S. Chandrashekar, medical director of Adarsha Hospital, underscored that breastfeeding, particularly exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, acts as a baby’s natural first vaccine, boosting immunity and protecting against various diseases. He also highlighted the benefits for mothers, such as strengthening the emotional bond with the child and reducing the risk of breast cancer. Dr. Ranjitha S. Nayak, consultant obstetrician and gynecologist, further elaborated on the theme “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life,” stressing the importance of initiating breastfeeding immediately after birth through Kangaroo Mother Care and the crucial role of family support. The awareness drive also addressed common challenges faced by mothers due to modern lifestyles and work pressures, offering guidance on overcoming these obstacles to ensure sustained breastfeeding. As part of the celebrations, poster competitions were held for nursing staff and students, with winners felicitated at the conclusion of the program. This local event aligns with the nationwide observance of World Breastfeeding Week by the Ministry of Women and Child Development under the POSHAN Abhiyaan, aiming to promote optimal infant and maternal nutrition across India.