Breastfeeding is the foundation of infant health, say doctors at KIMS Cuddles awareness walkathon

Visakhapatnam: Marking World Breastfeeding Week 2026, KIMS Cuddles, Seethammadhara, organised a week-long awareness campaign highlighting the importance of breastfeeding and the need for stronger support systems for nursing mothers. The initiative aimed to encourage families, healthcare professionals, and society at large to create a supportive environment that enables mothers to breastfeed with confidence.

As part of the campaign, a breastfeeding awareness walkathon was conducted at Visakhapatnam Beach on Friday to spread awareness among the public about the health benefits of breastfeeding.

The walkathon was attended by Dr. Anusha Kanthimahanthi, Dr. VBT Sundari and Dr. Pavani Manikya from the Department of Gynaecology, Neonatologists Dr. Nikhil Tenneti and Dr. Guru Prasad, Paediatrician Dr. Santosh, along with nurses, lactation consultants, hospital staff and parents of young children. Participants emphasised that breastfeeding is not solely the responsibility of the mother and that families and communities must actively support nursing mothers.

“Breast milk is the first investment in a child’s health. It provides complete nutrition, strengthens immunity and supports healthy brain development. It also fosters a strong emotional bond between mother and child,” the doctors said. They noted that while many mothers are willing to breastfeed, they often require proper guidance, encouragement and practical support.

The doctors stressed that creating a supportive social environment is essential to help mothers breastfeed with confidence and dignity. “With accurate information and expert guidance, most breastfeeding challenges can be overcome. Encouragement from family members and healthcare workers plays a vital role,” they said.

Describing breastfeeding as one of the most effective and economical public health interventions for improving maternal and infant health, the doctors said hospitals have a responsibility to provide guidance from pregnancy through the postnatal period. They added that KIMS Cuddles Seethammadhara is extending scientific medical care, expert counselling and continuous awareness programmes to ensure that every mother receives the support needed to breastfeed successfully.

Hospital officials said the campaign was intended to improve awareness about breastfeeding, promote the health of mothers and newborns, and encourage a society that stands by every mother during her breastfeeding journey.

For more details: Munsif daily.com