Introduction
The devastating earthquake that struck Türkiye in February 2023 highlighted critical challenges in infant feeding during emergencies. The research article "Infant formula donations and code violations during earthquake relief efforts in Türkiye in 2023: an observational study" sheds light on the violations of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes (the Code) and the Operational Guidance on Infant and Young Child Feeding in Emergencies (OG-IFE) during these relief efforts. This blog explores the findings and implications for practitioners, emphasizing the need for adherence to established guidelines to ensure safe infant feeding practices during crises.
Key Findings from the Study
The study documented 40 instances of Code violations and non-compliance with OG-IFE guidelines during the earthquake relief efforts. These violations included:
- Seeking or accepting donations of commercial milk formula (CMF) and feeding equipment by local and international NGOs and public agencies.
- Inclusion of CMF in general or blanket distributions without proper assessment of needs.
- Inappropriate promotions of CMF by companies leveraging the disaster for marketing opportunities.
Implications for Practitioners
Practitioners involved in disaster relief and infant feeding support can draw several lessons from these findings:
- Adherence to Guidelines: It is crucial to follow the OG-IFE and the Code to minimize health risks associated with artificial feeding during emergencies. Practitioners should ensure that any required CMF is procured, distributed, and used according to strict criteria.
- Training and Awareness: Health professionals should receive specific training on supporting breastfeeding in emergency settings. This includes understanding the risks of CMF donations and the importance of promoting exclusive breastfeeding.
- Monitoring and Enforcement: There is a need for robust mechanisms to monitor and enforce compliance with the Code and OG-IFE. Practitioners can advocate for stronger national policies and regulatory frameworks to support these efforts.
Encouraging Further Research
The study highlights gaps in the implementation of infant feeding guidelines during emergencies. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in further research to explore innovative solutions and strategies to enhance compliance and support safe infant feeding practices. Collaborative efforts with international organizations, governments, and local communities can help develop comprehensive policies and training programs tailored to specific disaster contexts.
Conclusion
The Türkiye earthquake relief efforts underscore the critical importance of adhering to established guidelines for infant feeding in emergencies. Practitioners play a vital role in ensuring that infants receive safe and adequate nutrition, even in the most challenging circumstances. By implementing the study's findings and advocating for stronger policies, practitioners can contribute to improved health outcomes for infants and young children in disaster settings.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Infant formula donations and code violations during earthquake relief efforts in Türkiye in 2023: an observational study.
