The National Maternal Perinatal Institute (former Maternity of Lima) has begun to develop the implementation of the Peru's first breast milk bank, thus adding the country to the expansion of this type of services in America.
This milk bank has donated equipment thanks to the cooperation of the University of Valencia, Spain, which have been valued at almost 30,000 euros. Among the devices there are heaters for milk in a water bath, among others, pump pumps, thermometers and, above all, the material necessary for pasteurization and preservation of milk, ensuring that it is not contaminated and can be offered to babies who need it in optimal conditions. terms.
The Vice-Rector of International Relations and Cooperation of the University of Valencia, Olga Gil, said that this milk bank is expected to save many lives:
“The policies and creation of milk banks in the world have allowed to improve feeding levels, for which international cooperation is necessary, these banks can meet the demand for neonatology services by promoting breastfeeding in society, which not only benefits the health of the child but also the mother ”
On the other hand, he remarked that thanks to Brazilian cooperation and the binational agreement between Peru and Brazil, there is a donation of $ 100,000 for the training of doctors, nurses, laboratory technicians, support staff and other professionals, who thanks to technology ensure that donated milk is healthy and maintains all its nutrients.
The extension of milk banks, like this one that is being promoted in Peru, is a breakthrough, since providing breast milk in good condition to infants admitted, especially premature babies, can make the difference between life and death for many of them.
