Human milk and breast feeding: recent highlights.

Interest in breast feeding and human milk continued in the literature in 1977. A review of the various areas related to lactation which appeared in publications in 1977 is made. The biological interactions between mother and nursing infant were explored. The biochemical composition of human milk was investigated in different circumstances. There seem to be particular problems with assessing the volume of breast milk produced in relation to optimal infant growth. Research as already shown that human milk has antiviral properties. Environmental pollutants are found in breast milk, but no immediate ill effects have yet been noted. Breast milk has been shown to be a better protection for the infant against protein allergies and common infections. Lactation seems to protect the mothers against development of breast cancer. Investigation continues into longterm advantages for the child of breast- as opposed to bottle-feeding. National health services have become interested in promoting breast feeding in many developing countries. Research is continuing into ways to promote breast feeding among working women.