Aleitamento materno como forma de redução da mortalidade neonatal e infantil

Abstract

Breastfeeding is essential for promoting child health and reducing neonatal and infant mortality due to its nutritional, immunological, and protective benefits. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between breastfeeding and the reduction of neonatal and infant mortality, considering scientific evidence and factors associated with its practice in the context of public health. This is a qualitative and descriptive bibliographic review conducted through searches in the Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS), Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), PubMed, and CAPES databases.Articles published between 2020 and 2025 were selected and systematically analyzed using the content analysis technique. The results showed that exclusive breastfeeding reduces the occurrence of respiratory and gastrointestinal infections, strengthens theimmune system, promotes the development of the intestinal microbiota, and contributes to the reduction of neonatal and infant mortality. Socioeconomic, cultural, and healthcare-related factors influencing adherence to breastfeeding were also identified, as well as the importance of public policies and educational actions in promoting this practice. Therefore, it became evident that strengthening strategies aimed at encouraging, protecting, and supporting breastfeeding is essential to improving maternal andchild health indicators and reducing preventable childhood deaths.