A Policy Brief on Promotion, Protection, and Support of Breastfeeding Practices During Disaster and Displacement

Introduction: During natural disaster a sudden increase in infant mortality and morbidity rates are reported. Breastfeeding practices are essential to prevent malnutrition-related mortalities among infants during disaster and displacement. Methods: Findings from the undertaken critical ethnographic study in the disaster relief camps of Chitral, Pakistan, were referred to identify need-based policies to promote, protect, and support breastfeeding among displaced mothers. Policy Implications: The study identified the need for strategic policies at sociocultural, economic, and geopolitical levels to support breastfeeding and save lives of young children during natural disasters. Conclusion: This article will facilitate clinicians, healthcare providers, and national and international agencies to recognize gaps in the existing policies and services targeting breastfeeding mothers during disaster and displacement.