Cyprus ministry releases report on breast-feeding trends from 2015 to 2024

The Cypriot Ministry of Health has released perinatal indicator data for the period 2015-2024, highlighting a significant gap between the initiation and exclusivity of breastfeeding. According to the report, while approximately 87% of mothers in Cyprus begin breastfeeding their infants, the rate of exclusive breastfeeding drops significantly to about 28%.

These findings were published as part of the 2026 Breastfeeding Promotion Month, which follows the global theme, "Breastfeeding for a sustainable start to life: strengthening what works." The Ministry identifies the discrepancy between initial and exclusive breastfeeding as a critical area for policy intervention, noting that while many women start the practice, support during their hospital stay and the post-discharge period in the community is often insufficient.

In response to these statistics, the government aims to strengthen its national strategy by focusing on practical, evidence-based support systems. The Health Ministry emphasizes that continuous monitoring of these indicators is essential to ensure mothers receive the necessary assistance to manage the daily challenges of breastfeeding after leaving maternity facilities. Future efforts will prioritize improving both institutional and community-based support structures to better assist women in continuing the practice.