Less than half of Brimbank infants are being adequately breastfed by the time they reach three months of age.
A Dental Health Services Victoria report reveals Brimbank has the second- lowest rate (39 per cent) of “fully breastfed infants” in the state.
Melton has the lowest rate with 37 per cent.
Brimbank community well-being director Neil Whiteside said the figures were a concern.
“Breastfeeding rates are consistently low in lower socio-economic areas with high cultural diversity and limited support resources,” he said.
Australian Breastfeeding Association spokeswoman Jessica Leonard said many Brimbank mothers faced breastfeeding challenges.
“Many mums tell us that the first time they ever see a baby being breastfed is when their own baby is born,” she said.
“This can certainly make things difficult when new mums are trying to learn a new skill they’ve never seen performed.”
Providing a snapshot of Brimbank’s oral health, the report reveals that 50 per cent of residents do not meet fruit and vegetable guidelines, 14 per cent of adults are smokers, and 12 per cent of residents consume soft drink every day.
The report reveals Melton has a smoking problem with nearly a quarter (22 per cent) of adults smoking.
Brimbank’s Australian Breastfeeding Association group meets once a month at Sydenham Neighbourhood House, Taylors Lakes. The next meeting will be on Monday, June 16, from 10am.
More details at www.facebook.com/ozbreastfeedingwestgateregion
