26 November 2007
Healthier Canterbury population target of CDHB breastfeeding funding boost
The Canterbury District Health Board has allocated more than half a million dollars to help improve breastfeeding rates
in the region. Encouraging mothers to fully breastfeed infants for at least six months is a key target for the District
Health Board and forms part of the Healthy Eating Healthy Action (HEHA) strategy.
Although New Zealand has breastfeeding rates at birth that are consistent with other OECD countries, rates are lower at
six weeks, especially among Maori and Pacific women. “The new funding is a huge opportunity to contribute to the
long-term health of Canterbury people and reduce health inequalities between population groups,” Cathy Robinson,
Canterbury HEHA Development Manager, said.
With $200k per year allocated over three years, the CDHB is searching for expressions of interest from organisations
that focus on Mother to Mother support or increasing the access and availability of lactation consultants in the
community.
A substantial body of evidence shows that breastfeeding contributes positively to nutrition, health and wider well-being
for babies, mothers and whanau/families.
For instance, breastfed infants have increased resistance to illnesses, better cognitive development, and reduced risk
of a range of conditions including diabetes and obesity. Benefits for mothers include protection from haemorrhaging
after their baby is born, and reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
Organisations wishing to file an expression of interest for the new funding should contact Cathy Robinson at the CDHB on
03 337 8659.
ENDS