GINA infant nutrition alliance supports breastfeeding in Gaza
Abstract Remote interventions can be important in supporting breastfeeding and infant nutrition. These can be particularly crucial in conflict zones due to insecure water sources, maternal malnutrition, maternal distress, and limited healthcare access. In Gaza, mothers have had good attitudes toward...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Springer
2025-07-01
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| Series: | Discover Public Health |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1186/s12982-025-00828-8 |
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| Summary: | Abstract Remote interventions can be important in supporting breastfeeding and infant nutrition. These can be particularly crucial in conflict zones due to insecure water sources, maternal malnutrition, maternal distress, and limited healthcare access. In Gaza, mothers have had good attitudes towards breastfeeding, but often lack details and support in a very challenging environment due to the lengthy occupation of Gaza. Since October 2023, this was severely worsened by the blockades of food, medicine, and electricity needed for clean water, as well as very limited supplies, amidst a high level of insecurity from ongoing airstrikes, insufficient shelter, and population displacement. The Gaza Infant Nutrition Alliance (GINA) therefore established a local training programme, coupled with an international mentorship scheme engaging some 22 volunteers, to promote breastfeeding in Gaza. This included providing specialist breastfeeding support in three Neonatal Intensive Care Units in Gaza, maternity units, baby-friendly rooms and newly established breastfeeding clinics. GINA started with one midwife and one doctor in Gaza, and expanded to about 30 healthcare workers each paired with an international lactation specialist and, if needed, an Arabic-speaking support person, for daily contact and mentorship. Based on a philosophy of strengthening community networks, GINA also provides mental health support and materials, collaborating with local hospitals, non-governmental organizations and healthcare professionals. Since April 2024, GINA has supported over 5,271 mothers across Gaza through over 5,000 face-to-face and 271 virtual consultations; 2,555 mothers were able to practice exclusive breastfeeding (EBF), for an overall EBF rate of 48.5% for infants < 6 months. While an end to the occupation and sustained peace in the region will be essential for maternal and child health, GINA’s flexible telehealth model that moves with mothers, ensuring continuity of care even during repeated evacuations, demonstrates the continued importance and feasibility of culturally-grounded virtual ‘support bubbles’ for breastfeeding mothers. |
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| ISSN: | 3005-0774 |