EgyptS Ministry of Health and Population has announced new guidelines for distributing subsidized fortified infant formula, outlining three specific categories of eligibility.
Who Qualifies for Subsidized Infant Formula?
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The first category includes cases requiring medical evaluation, such as:
- Birth of twins, where only one infant receives breast milk.
- Maternal death or medical conditions preventing breastfeeding, including kidney or liver failure, or diseases requiring radiation or chemotherapy.
- Severe psychological or mental health conditions, or infection with AIDS.
The second category covers temporary eligibility with periodic reviews,including:
- Mothers diagnosed with tuberculosis within the first two weeks of treatment.
- Mothers taking specific medications that affect breastfeeding.
The third category encompasses children of unknown parentage.
Health Officials Emphasize breastfeeding as the Ideal
Dr. Hossam Abdel Ghaffar, spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, stressed that “breastfeeding is the ideal way for a child to grow and develop. Formula should only be used in emergency situations.” He added that each case will undergo a medical evaluation to determine eligibility for formula.
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Groups prohibited from obtaining fortified infant formula.. What are the new procedures?
New Procedures for Dispensing Formula
The new regulations require official documentation, including certified medical reports, birth certificates, and national ID numbers. Proof of twin births, maternal death, or parentage is also required.
The decision has sparked mixed reactions, particularly among mothers experiencing breastfeeding difficulties who were not included in the eligible categories.
Previously, a Ministry of Health spokesperson explained that infants could be fed milk substitutes under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
For more information on the new guidelines and eligibility criteria, please visit the Ministry of Health and Population website.
A recent statement from health authorities has sparked debate about the role of formula milk in infant nutrition. While emphasizing the irreplaceable bond between mother and child,experts acknowledge that formula can serve as a viable option in specific circumstances.
The guidance, aimed at parents and caregivers, clarifies that formula milk should only be considered as a substitute for breast milk when absolutely necessary. This recommendation applies to infants from birth up to one year of age.
“Children can replace the mother with ‘formula milk’ only in cases that require it, starting from the age of one day to one year,” the statement reads.
The statement underscores the importance of consulting with healthcare professionals to determine the most appropriate feeding method for each individual infant.
## Egypt Tightens Access to Subsidized infant Formula: An Expert Explains
**Cairo, Egypt** – In a move aimed at promoting breastfeeding, Egypt’s Ministry of Health and Population has issued new regulations outlining strict eligibility criteria for subsidized fortified infant formula.
To understand the implications of these new guidelines, World Today News interviewed Dr. Nadia Ahmed, a leading pediatrician and nutrition specialist at Cairo University.
**World Today News:** Dr. Ahmed, could you shed light on the three categories of eligibility for subsidized formula laid out by the Ministry?
**Dr. Ahmed:** Certainly.the guidelines prioritize infants with genuine medical needs. The first category encompasses cases where breastfeeding is medically impossible, such as the death of the mother, severe maternal illness, or infant prematurity requiring specialized feeding. Also included are situations like the birth of twins where only one infant is breastfed.
The second category covers temporary circumstances. For example, mothers diagnosed with tuberculosis during the initial two weeks of treatment may temporarily qualify due to medication side effects affecting breastfeeding. Similarly, mothers taking specific medications incompatible with breastfeeding may also be eligible. Importantly, this category requires periodic reviews to evaluate the need for continued formula access.
the third category addresses a particularly vulnerable group: children of unknown parentage.
**World Today News:** It appears the new guidelines aim to limit access to subsidized formula. Is this a positive step?
**Dr. Ahmed:** Undeniably, breastfeeding is the ideal way to nourish infants, providing optimal nutrients and immunological protection.
The changes reflect a global movement towards promoting breastfeeding and recognizing its paramount importance. While subsidized formula plays a vital role for infants with genuine medical needs, widespread reliance on formula can have long-term health implications.
**World Today News:** What are some of the potential downsides of over-reliance on formula?
**Dr. Ahmed:** Studies have consistently shown that exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life considerably reduces the risk of infections, allergies, and chronic diseases later in life.
formula feeding, on the other hand, is associated with a higher risk of ear infections, respiratory illnesses, and obesity. It’s crucial to ensure that families understand the benefits of breastfeeding and receive adequate support to overcome any challenges thay may face.
**World Today News:** What are your thoughts on the Ministry’s emphasis on periodic reviews for temporary eligibility?
**Dr. Ahmed:** I believe it’s a crucial step. This emphasizes that subsidized formula shoudl be a temporary solution, not a long-term substitute for breastfeeding. Regular reviews ensure that resources are allocated to those who genuinely need them and encourage a return to breastfeeding whenever possible.
**World Today News:** What message would you like to convey to new mothers in Egypt considering these new regulations?
**Dr. Ahmed:** Breastfeeding is a gift you can give to your child.While it may come with initial challenges, the long-term benefits for both you and your baby are immeasurable. The Ministry is committed to providing support and resources to all mothers who choose to breastfeed. For those facing genuine medical challenges, subsidized formula remains available to ensure infants receive the nourishment they need.
