Quantifying the Benefits of Breastfeeding:
A Summary of the Evidence

June 2002

Each year new evidence contributes to our knowledge of breastfeeding's role in the survival, growth, and development of a child as well as the health and well-being of a mother. This publication provides scientific and epidemiological evidence in support of the WHO and UNICEF Global Strategy for Infant and Young Child Feeding.

This summary of the evidence of breastfeeding's impact on health outcomes makes a powerful case for protecting, promoting, and supporting a life-saving resource that ensures the best start in life for newborns.

Cover page - (PDF 92kb)
Foreward, Table of Contents, and Introduction (PDF 533kb)

1. Effect of Breastfeeding on Morbidity(PDF 295kb)
2. Effect of Breastfeeding on Infant Mortality (PDF 208kb)
3. Effect of Breastfeeding on Intellectual and Motor Development (PDF 292kb)
4. Effect of Breastfeeding on Chronic Diseases (PDF 166kb)
5. Effect of Breastfeeding on Maternal Health (PDF 185kb)
6. Economic Benefits of Breastfeeding (PDF 175kb)
7. Bibliography and Tables (PDF 883kb)