44 infant deaths at home in 2022 mostly due to neglect

Nagpur: Mother’s milk serves as a life-saving nectar for a newborn. However, ignorance leading to wrong breastfeeding practices can be fatal at times. This can be gauged from the fact that of the 1,381 infant deaths in Nagpur district in 2022-23, about 44 infants, all under the age of six months, died at home.

Data shared by health authorities also includes deaths caused by household accidents, falls, and electrocution, but over 3 per cent of the total infant deaths had resulted due to feeding errors.

The primary cause of these home deaths has been identified as improper feeding causing the breast milk to block the windpipe resulting in choking, say doctors.

Of the infant deaths in medical institutions, 802 were reported from Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), followed by 248 at Mayo Hospital, 39 at Daga Hospital, and 248 in private hospitals across the city.

Analysis of the data concerning hospital deaths sheds light on various causes, including premature birth, alarmingly low birth weight, infections, pneumonia, and stroke. But, the home deaths are mostly due to wrong practice of breastfeeding.

Leading paediatrician Dr Avinash Gawande emphasized the importance of avoiding feeding infants in a lying position, cautioning mothers about the potential dangers associated with this practice. “Many mothers fall asleep while the child is still feeding, and sometimes this could be very dangerous. In some cases, fatigue that mothers may experience while nursing their infants increases the likelihood of unintentional harm,” he said.

To ensure the safety and well-being of both mother and child during feeding, Dr Gawande recommended adopting a seated or semi-reclined position and maintaining a vigilant and attentive approach throughout the feeding process.

Dr Sushma Deshmukh, president of Nagpur Obstetrics and Gynaecology Society (NOGS) highlighted the need for comprehensive education and awareness programmes that address safe feeding practices.

“Remember, each mother-baby pair is unique, and it may take time to establish a comfortable and effective breastfeeding routine. Patience, practice, and seeking support of your doctor are key elements in ensuring a positive breastfeeding experience for both mother and the baby,” she said.