Menu
Capturing Breastfeeding Culture Worldwide
"Capturing Breastfeeding Culture Worldwide" series of lectures touches the nature of breastfeeding in a variety of cultures. The speakers are all experts in their regions and are directly involved in working with mothers and breastfeeding babies.
Breastfeeding Culture in Singapore: Cynthia Pang - (30 min)
Singapore has a population of 3.6 million residents comprising of mainly four ethnic groups namely the Chinese, Malay, Indians and Others. The number of live births is about 38000, with 16000 occurring in public sector hospitals and 22000 in private sector hospitals. Over the last decade, breastfeeding rates in Singapore has improved as shown in the National survey indicating that 95% of the mothers attempted breastfeeding compared to 50% in 1993. However, exclusive breastfeeding rates remain low and sustained breastfeeding at 6 months is also low. Although over the years, with better social economic status and education, more mothers are aware of the benefits of breastfeeding and are making better and informed decision on infant nutrition, traditional practices and beliefs within each ethnic group still play a vital role in influencing their breastfeeding practices. These can have both positive and negative impact on their intention to breastfeed as well as the types and duration of breastfeeding.
Click the play button above to begin.