Parkland Health will host a Breastfeeding Fair on Thursday, August 15, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the cafeteria of Parkland Memorial Hospital, located at 5200 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, 75235. The event, open to the public, aims to educate families about the benefits of breastfeeding and provide resources to support breastfeeding mothers and expectant parents.
Breastfeeding is endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics as the optimal source of nutrition for infants. World Breastfeeding Week, observed from August 1-7 each year, is dedicated to promoting breastfeeding and improving global infant health.
Parkland Health’s lactation support experts emphasize the importance of breastfeeding for both nutritional and emotional bonding. Kathy Chaney-Padak, MSN, RN, IBCLC, Unit Manager of Women & Family Education at Parkland, highlights the challenges some mothers face with breastfeeding initiation and stresses the value of available support.
Breastmilk provides essential nutrients, antibodies, and hormones necessary for a baby’s growth and development, while also fostering a strong emotional bond through skin-to-skin contact. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that breastfeeding reduces the risk of various health issues for infants and offers health benefits for mothers, including decreased risks of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.
Supporting breastfeeding mothers involves educating oneself about the process, ensuring the mother gets enough rest, and assisting with household responsibilities. Caregivers are encouraged to be present during breastfeeding sessions and support the mother’s nutritional and hydration needs.
