August Marks National, Kansas Breastfeeding Awareness Months

August is recognized as National Breastfeeding Month, emphasizing the importance of breastfeeding and the collective efforts needed to support families. The 2025 theme, "Forward Together," highlights unity and hope in creating meaningful change through policy and community support, as seen in initiatives like Cooley Dickinson Hospital’s Baby-Friendly designation and the Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition's efforts. Breastfeeding provides significant health benefits for both infants and mothers, but many families face challenges sustaining breastfeeding, often due to workplace and access barriers. States like Kansas have declared August as Breastfeeding Month to raise awareness and promote supportive policies such as paid maternity leave and insurance coverage for lactation support. Local health departments, including Toledo-Lucas County, are also hosting events to encourage breastfeeding, recognizing its role in reducing childhood illnesses and promoting maternal health. These combined efforts aim to foster environments where breastfeeding is supported as a public health priority.