Health | breastfeeding Breastfeeding Could Save Many Lives, Prevent Illnesses Copied Jessica Salazar holds her twins, Matias, left, and Josue, right, as they take part in a breastfeeding contest in Lima, Aug. 26, 2008, sponsored by Peru's Health Ministry to help promote breastfeeding. (AP Photo/Karel Navarro) The lives of nearly 900 babies would be saved each year, along with billions of dollars, if 90% of American women breast-fed their babies for the first six months of life, finds a startling study published today in the journal Pediatrics. A similar 2001 government report said $3.6 billion could be saved each year if 50% of mothers breast-fed. Illnesses that could be prevented include stomach viruses, ear infections, asthma, juvenile diabetes, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and even childhood leukemia. "Breast-feeding makes a profound difference," Dr. Ruth Lawrence, who heads the American Academy of Pediatrics' breast-feeding section, tells the AP. About 43% of US mothers do at least some breast-feeding for six months—only 12% breast-feed exclusively. Read the full article. Read These Next Mark Zuckerberg's 'list' has Silicon Valley buzzing. Tillis, who opposes Trump bill, won't seek reelection. IAEA chief downplays damage to Iran nuclear sites. Musk renews attack on Trump's bill. Report an error