A little late in reporting the news but certainly still worth the mention - in April a study written up in Pediatrics detailed the benefits of breastfeeding both financially and biologically. Researchers report that $13 billion could be saved annually if 90% of US families were able to breastfeed for the minimum recommendation of 6 months.  The savings are related to the costs of pediatric care required for a variety of diseases.  This doesn't even factor in the additional costs of formula and sick time these families are also affording making breastfeeding an extremely valuable investment.

The report also mentions the near 1000 deaths per year that could also be avoided. Sadly the financial savings will probably be the factor that has most people listening to the ongoing strategies to improve breastfeeding rates.  But in the end whatever works to set the fire under the US to gain the added programs and support staff so desperately needed is appreciated.  Many thanks from this lactation consultant for the continued data that speaks to policy makers and the powers that be, I hope they listen.