IN TRUE Schools' Challenge Quiz style, health workers faced each other in the National Breastfeeding Competition, which marked the peak of National Breastfeeding Week activities.

The competition this year featured health workers from across the island, who answered questions concerning breastfeeding.

In one semi-final match, the Southern Regional Health Authority (SRHA) squared off against the Western Regional Health Authority in a tightly contested competition. SRHA ended close 36-35 victors.

In the other semi-final, the North East Regional Health Authority lost 32-34 to the South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA).

Ding-dong battle

In a dazzling final match, which showcased the speed and awareness of the participants about the various health issues surrounding breastfeeding, a fierce battle took place between the SERHA and the SRHA .

The final was played at the Ministry of Health.

The first segment of the competition, ended 10-10. However, the SERHA squeezed by its opponents, earning a two-point lead by the end of the second segment.

In the third and final segment, the SRHA extended its lead, ending 34-28 winners.

Though the competition proved exciting, it was about much more than scoring points, as the Ministry of Health has plans to take the message of 'breast is best' throughout the island.

Paula-Anne Porter-Jones, the newly appointed breastfeeding advocate, while pointing out that it was just her third day on the job, noted that "the rural areas will not be neglected".

She also pointed out that "it is a fallacy that breastfeeding will make your figure look bad. Your figure will look bad if you don't take care of it".

The best way

Jones emphasised that "breastfeeding is one of the best ways of losing baby fat".

When asked if she would be getting on board to lobby for employers to give lactating mothers time to breastfeed, Jones said, "I hope to get a voice in," especially in terms of a "space for privacy and a sanitary area that they (lactating mothers) can express and store milk".