OTTAWA (July 27, 2009) - When it comes to the health of a child, every decision a parent makes - before and after birth - can have long-term implications. Studies have shown that breastfeeding can boost a child's immune system, reduce the risk of infection, and, as CIHR's IHDCYH Scientific Director, Dr. Michael Kramer, and his team discovered, exclusive and prolonged breastfeeding can even make children smarter! While many studies have substantiated the benefits of breastfeeding, this topic remains highly debated within the health-care community.
August 1-7 is World Breastfeeding Week and several CIHR-funded researchers are studying the different aspects of breastfeeding to determine how to promote the health of both mother and child.
Lactation and medication: A potentially toxic combination
Dr. Shinya Ito, CIHR-funded researcher from the Hospital for Sick Children (Toronto)
Vitamin D in pregnancy and breastfeeding - how much is enough for a healthy mother and child?
Dr. Tim Green, CIHR-funded researcher from the University of British Columbia (Vancouver)
Different mothers, different practices - Is there a "right" way to breastfeed?
Dr. Aimee Webb, CIHR-funded researcher from the University of Toronto (Toronto)
Can breastfeeding now improve your child's health later?
Dr. Michael Kramer, Scientific Director of CIHR's Institute of Human Development, Child and Youth Health (Montreal)
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) is the Government of Canada's agency for health research. CIHR's mission is to create new scientific knowledge and to catalyze its translation into improved health, more effective health services and products, and a strengthened Canadian health-care system. Composed of 13 Institutes, CIHR provides leadership and support to more than 13,000 health researchers and trainees across Canada.
For an interview, please contact:
David Coulombe
CIHR Media Specialist
Office: 613-941-4563
Mobile: 613-808-7526
E-mail: mediarelations@cihr-irsc.gc.ca
