Human breast milk is so important that the World Health Organization recommends to begin breastfeeding immediately after birth, exclusively for the first 6 months, and continue for up to 2 years or more. Data show that only about 50% of infants were breastfed within the first hour of birth and exclusively for up to 6 months, with just 65% continuing breastfeeding at 1-2 years. Low breast milk supply is the most frequent reason lactating women stop breastfeeding.
Leading researcher, Seun Kuyooro has a name synonymous with excellence in the fields of Biomedical and Nutritional Sciences. She is at the forefront of transforming lactation science. Kuyooro is conducting cutting-edge proteomics studies aimed at identifying biomarkers for low breast milk supply in women. By exploring the interplay between genetic variants, dietary factors and environmental exposures, she is shedding light on the intricacies of human milk composition. Her experiments, which incorporate techniques such as western blotting, immunoblotting and cell culture, hold the potential to revolutionize how breastfeeding challenges are understood and managed. Her work which focuses on understanding lactation biology includes investigating plant seed extracts’ role in improving lactation and her findings are set to reshape breastfeeding support worldwide.
Low breast milk supply in breastfeeding carries substantial health, economic, and social consequences for both the United States and the world at large. From a health perspective, insufficient breast milk poses risks for both infants and mothers. Infants who do not receive adequate breast milk are at a higher risk of infections, allergies, obesity, and chronic conditions like diabetes and asthma, as breast milk provides essential nutrients and immune protection. For mothers, low milk supply can result in the loss of breastfeeding’s health benefits, including a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancers, postpartum depression, and type 2 diabetes.
Notable economic impacts of low breastmilk supply in breastfeeding include increased healthcare costs, formula expenses, and reduced workplace productivity. The lack of breastfeeding often leads to higher rates of illness in both infants and mothers, driving up healthcare expenses that burden the U.S. healthcare system. Families dealing with low breast milk supply frequently rely on infant formula, which can pose a financial strain, particularly for low-income households, and contributes to substantial consumer spending nationwide. Additionally, breastfeeding challenges may require mothers to take extra time off work for medical appointments, lactation support, or managing infant illnesses, negatively affecting workplace productivity.
Low breast milk supply has significant social impacts, including emotional and psychological stress as well as disparities in breastfeeding rates. Mothers struggling with low milk supply often experience feelings of guilt, anxiety, and inadequacy, which can adversely affect their mental health and the bonding process with their child. Additionally, women with limited access to lactation support are disproportionately affected by these challenges, further deepening existing health disparities.
Seun Kuyooro’s research aimed at understanding low breast milk supply in women is vital for addressing the multifaceted challenges it poses. Her research not only has the potential to improve maternal and infant health outcomes but also to reduce economic burdens and health disparities. Ultimately, advancing the knowledge in this area can foster more effective strategies to support breastfeeding mothers, ensuring healthier beginnings for families and stronger public health outcomes. With her research poised to influence breastfeeding practices globally, Seun Kuyooro is a testament to how scientific rigor and a passion for public health can converge to create meaningful change.