Overview:
World Breastfeeding Week is observed annually from August 1st to 7th to promote, protect, and support breastfeeding because of its important health benefits for mothers and children. In 2026, the focus is on strengthening proven interventions that improve breastfeeding rates and expanding their implementation through health systems, workplaces, and communities.
Objectives:
- Raise awareness of the importance of breastfeeding and its health benefits for mothers and children.
- Promote access to specialized breastfeeding support during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.
- Support the implementation and expansion of proven interventions that contribute to improving breastfeeding rates.
- Strengthen the role of health systems, communities, and families in supporting breastfeeding mothers.
Facts:
- The global rate of exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months increased from approximately 37% in 2012 to more than 47% currently.
- The rate of continued breastfeeding up to two years of age increased from 38% to 50% over the past five years.
- Breastfeeding provides essential nutrition for infants, strengthens immunity, protects against serious diseases, and supports cognitive development.
- Breastfeeding is associated with a lower risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and type 2 diabetes in mothers.
Official Date:
Globally: August 1st–7th, 2026.
Locally: Safar 17th–23rd, 1448H.
References:
World Health Organization – World Breastfeeding Week 2026
World Health Organization and UNICEF – Strengthening Breastfeeding Support and Health Systems in 2026.