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NYU Medical Center Earns Baby-Friendly Designation

By Mary Johnson | September 8, 2011 11:36am
NYU Langone Medical Center received designation as a Baby-Friendly Hospital because of its emphasis on breastfeeding.
NYU Langone Medical Center received designation as a Baby-Friendly Hospital because of its emphasis on breastfeeding.
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DNAinfo/Mary Johnson

KIPS BAY — NYU Langone Medical Center is big on breastfeeding, a position that has earned it official bragging rights as a Baby-Friendly Hospital.

The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative, sponsored by the World Health Organization and the United Nations Children’s Fund, recognizes hospitals that promote breastfeeding among infants.

NYU Langone Medical Center this week became only the second New York City hospital to get the designation —the other being Harlem Hospital.

“Mounting scientific evidence demonstrates the importance of breastfeeding for the health and well being of both baby and mother,” said Dr. David Keefe, chair of the obstetrics and gynecology department at NYU Medical Center, in a statement. 

“For a number of reasons, modern society has drifted away from this important practice,” Keefe added. “The Baby-Friendly designation for NYU Langone Medical Center recognizes the commitment made by our nurses and doctors to set things right again.”

Studies have shown that breastfeeding can positively affect infant health, in some cases reducing instances of diarrhea, respiratory and ear infections and allergic skin disorders, according to information on the Baby-Friendly Health Initiative website.

“Breastfed babies are healthier than babies fed formula,” said New York City Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley in a statement.

“They are less likely to get various infections as infants and less likely to develop other serious health problems, including asthma and diabetes, later in life. To breastfeed successfully, women benefit from the support from doctors, hospitals and communities.”