Trends of Breastfeeding in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Abstract

In 1990, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) declared a “global goal” for protection, promotion and support of breastfeeding (Innocenti Declaration) (WHO/UNICEF 1990). In 1991 health care authorities in the UAE started to implement breastfeeding promotion and support programs across the country. To date, there are ongoing national efforts and investments in these programs including development and update of policies and strategies.This mini review evaluates the trends of infant and child feeding practices in the UAE over the last few decades to assess the progress attributed to the rollout and implementation of breastfeeding promotion programs.Keywords: Breastfeeding, United Arab Emirates, Nutrition.