Disasters at Home and Abroad

A short time ago Mother Nature released her fury with a 9.0 earthquake in Northern Japan. The earth shifted dramatically along the Pacific Ring of Fire. The well-organized and meticulous leaders in Japan had prepared for such a powerful assault, and the structural damage was controlled. But one event triggered another, and the ocean rose up from its bed and swept over the land, washing hundreds of quake survivors into the ocean's depths. Seawalls and other preventive measures were no match for this mighty surge of water. Shortly it was noted that the nuclear power plants were in danger of exploding and spewing radioactive air and water over the land. This triad of disasters brought out the true spirit of the stoic Japanese people. There was … no whining, no looting, and no stealing; people were helping people. Without power, water, and food the outlook was bleak for all.

As physicians we naturally worry most about the children, especially the infants, the most vulnerable with the least reserve. One of the most compelling reasons to breastfeed has always been in times of “disaster,” thinking of hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods most commonly. Breastfeeding is hydration, nutrition, and protection against infection and disease. It is comfort, warmth, and security as well. Hopefully, the mothers of Japan had followed the great tradition of breastfeeding throughout the country at least for the first year of life and were able to provide for their children. In the face of such disaster, with all the water contaminated and no heat to boil the formula and the containers, the prospect for infants who are not breastfed is poor.

An important question remains: The potential for radiation exposure. Is it safe to breastfeed? Yes, safer than formula and contaminated water. If potassium iodide is recommended, the mother should take the recommended dose. Iodine moves into milk by a positive pump, whereas most substances move slowly into milk and at reduced levels. The infant under 3–4 months will not need KI directly if fully breastfed. Older and bigger infants will need one dose of KI directly. Mothers should continue to breastfeed unless they received a life-threatening dose of radiation. The best thing a lactating woman can do is to continue to breastfeed. It is well documented historically, if she has recently weaned, relactation is possible, especially in the face of this compelling need.

Here in the United States our disasters with the spring equinox have been manageable, but it seems as if we are about to create a disaster of our own making. Rumor has it that well-meaning breastfeeding advocates have considered signing up with the “Got Milk” campaign, which is a commercial enterprise designed to promote cow's milk and continued cow's milk drinking throughout all age groups. At first blush it might seem like a good idea, but the repercussions would be tsunamic in proportion. Breastfeeding is more than just milk. It is the best nutrition possible for the human infant and child. It is also infection protection, immune protection, allergy protection, and disease protection. The process creates a human bond between mother and infant. An added bonus is the collection of benefits for the mother as well that last a lifetime.

The message to encourage women to breastfeed would be muted if not destroyed by this association. Babies are born to breastfeed. This is our slogan. Through the wisdom of the Office of Women's Health and the genius of the National Advertising Council, this slogan was created. It is available to all to be used for free. No deals needed. And who can argue?

Babies are born to breastfeed.