Paediatricians push for more human milk banks in Kerala

Paediatricians in Kerala have called for scaling up human milk banks and encouraging more donors to meet the clinical demand for breast milk, especially for preterm and sick newborns. Doctors point to a persistent gap between lactation needs and actual milk utilisation, which forces hospitals to rely on formula milk.

At the Institute of Mother and Child in Kozhikode, 100-110 vulnerable newborns need intensive care daily. Nodal officer Dr Deepa K.S. said the gap prevails across high-volume centres. Many potential donors lack awareness or hold misconceptions, while stigma also deters participation.

Ernakulam General Hospital has proposed setting up a milk collection unit to accept donations. Doctors stress that donor milk is provided free and can save lives, but only a handful of voluntary donors come forward. One donor travelled 85 km to donate, highlighting both the need and the shortage.