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Breastfeeding support for whanau Maori: The Northland experience

Year:
2020
Duration:
6 months
Approved budget:
$10,000.00
Researchers:
Ms Carmen Timu-Parata
,
Dr Amanda Kvalsvig
,
Dr Zoe Tipa
,
Mrs Belinda Tuari-Toma
Health issue:
Nutrition
Proposal type:
Māori Health Development Grant
Lay summary
Breastfeeding plays a crucial role in strengthening immunity, physical and psychological development of the infant. National exclusive breastfeeding rates are decreasing and there is an urgent need for effective Maori-specific interventions to address lower rates in Maori that are contributing to health inequities. Maori in the Northland area have maintained high exclusive breastfeeding rates since 2012, an impressive outcome that contrasts with the national trend. During this project, a qualitative kaupapa Maori approach will be used. The key objective of the research project is to explore the client/whanau journey through breastfeeding support from LMC, maternity, Well Child Tamariki Ora to whanau/family support. There are multiple iwi in the Northland DHB. This project represents an exciting opportunity to co-design a “whanau ora” approach for breastfeeding with Northland iwi and to learn what they have to share about this experience.