How does breastfeeding impact long-term health outcomes?
Breastfeeding has been associated with numerous positive health outcomes for both the infant and the mother. For infants, breastfeeding reduces the risk of infections, improves cognitive development, and is linked to lower rates of chronic conditions like obesity and diabetes later in life. For mothers, breastfeeding can reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, as well as postpartum depression. Epidemiological research supports the promotion of breastfeeding as a public health strategy to improve long-term health outcomes.
