In Myanmar, the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding among infants under six months of age has increased substantially, according to data from the 2009–2010 Myanmar Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) and the 2015–2016 Myanmar Demographic and Health Survey (MDHS).

Human milk bank (HMB) services are an essential component of a breastfeeding-friendly health system. HMB services give at-risk infants, such as those born pre-term or low birthweight, access to the multiple benefits of breastmilk when they need it most.

The first six months of life are critical for child health and development. Breastmilk provides all the nutrients infants need during this period, supporting brain development and reducing the risk of infection and malnutrition.

In February 2017, the first human milk bank in Viet Nam opened in the Da Nang Hospital for Women and Children (DNHWC). The Ministry of Health and Alive & Thrive selected to establish these services at the DNHWC because of the hospital’s existing emphasis on breastfeeding.

From 2010-2014, Alive & Thrive worked in Bangladesh, Ethiopia, and Viet Nam to reduce undernutrition and death caused by sub-optimal infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices.

With financial and technical support from Alive & Thrive and PATH, the Da Nang Department of Health launched Viet Nam’s first human milk bank at the Da Nang Hospital for Women and Children.