Cost-Benefit Analysis of Increasing the Exclusive Breastfeeding Rate in Italy.

INTRODUCTION

Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is widely regarded as the optimal method for feeding newborns. While existing literature primarily emphasizes the medical benefits, such as enhanced disease resistance and improved health indicators, this paper proposes a conservative cost-saving exercise of exclusive breastfeeding during the first five months of an infant's life.

METHODS

Based on the EBF rates in Italy for 2019, the last year with data unaffected by the COVID-19 pandemic, we carried-out a conservative cost-saving exercise considering otitis media, gastroenteritis, and respiratory diseases, applying the methodology proposed by Weimer et al. (2001) and Coco (2007). Cost of hospitalization in case of complications or infant death were not included in the analysis.

RESULTS

The total savings considering all three simulations combined under different EBF rate scenarios range from a minimum of € 10,5 million (EBF rate of 40%) to a maximum of € 33.7 million (EBF rate of 71%). Moreover, these estimated savings increase when the cost of formula milk is included.

CONCLUSION

Estimates provided in this work are very conservative. Nonetheless, they pointed out important savings due to increasing EBF rates. Policies such as the Baby-Friendly Hospital and the Baby-Friendly Community Initiatives promoted by United Nations International Children's' Emergency Fund and the World Health Organization are valuable tools to improve EBF and we highly recommend their adoption more widely in Italy.