Opportunities for Pediatricians to Address Racism and Bias to Reduce Racial Disparities in Breastfeeding and the Use of Human Milk: Policy Statement

PEDIATRICS 2026

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Authors: Lori Feldman‐Winter, Sahira Long, Julie Ware, Margaret G. Parker, Pooja Kakar, Tara Williams, Section on Breastfeeding, Maya Bunik, Temitope Awelewa, Emily Hannon, Ann Kellams, Sahira Long
+17 more Tara Williams, Eric Eichenwald, Namasivayam Ambalavanan, Charleta Guillory, Mark Hudak, David Kaufman, Camilia Martin, Ashley Lucke, Margaret Parker, Arun Pramanik, Kelly Wade, Nathaniel Jones, Nathan Chomilo, Joanne Fernandez-Booker, Monique Jindal, Valencia Walker, Jordee Wells
DOI: 10.1542/peds.2026-078282
Cited by: 1
References: 102

Abstract

Pediatricians play an essential role in breastfeeding care and are uniquely positioned to help reduce racial disparities in breastfeeding. Evidence-based solutions include partnerships between pediatricians and community health workers, implementation of culturally centered hospital practices, securing fair payment for lactation services and supplies, practices that discourage commercial milk formula marketing in clinical settings, and ongoing learning about breastfeeding in different cultures. Pediatricians can avail themselves of resources that may elevate their role in achieving equitable breastfeeding care throughout the US.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Breastfeeding Practices and Influences Infant Nutrition and Health Enterobacteriaceae and Cronobacter Research

Publication details

Journal / source
PEDIATRICS
Publisher
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Volume
158
Issue
3
Publication date
3 August 2026
Language
EN