Unified Agenda of the Golden August: a perspective to promote breastfeeding in Mato Grosso, Brazil

Abstract

Issue Mato Grosso, Brazil has a low average of exclusive breastfeeding. Breastfeeding promotion actions usually focus on transmitting information to pregnant or nursing mothers about the benefits of breast milk, although cultural factors interfere in this practice, and so, needs to be more explored by public health actions and policies. Description of the problem Since 2013, Mato Grosso State Department of Health annually carries out, in August, the project 'Unified Agenda of the Golden August', whose goal is to organize and to publicize in a map all breastfeeding promotion actions carried out by the municipalities of the state. To focus on the cultural meanings of breastfeeding, in 2019 the project was expanded with the inclusion of an artistic-cultural activity. Results The First Week of Art and Culture of Breastfeeding was an action lasting 30 days, which included four short courses, the exhibition and debate of the film 'Tigers', the musical show 'Strength Woman', the art exhibition 'The Breastfeeding Art' with ceramic sculptures, canvas paintings, photographs and installations, guided tour and a special invitation from elementary school students. The central issue of all activities was breastfeeding. All actions were free with the participation of 30 regional artists. For the first time, in 2019, the project mobilized 140 of the 141 municipalities in the state, totaling 475 actions and 15,485 participants. We highlight the participation of a curricular internship in the nutrition course of a public university and volunteer students in the project, which contributed to the exchange of knowledge between management/service and academia. Lessons This practice allowed us to reflect on the act of breastfeeding from the perspectives of art and culture, taking the theme to other age groups and institutional spaces. This practice provided the opportunity to promote breastfeeding among the entire community and mobilized almost all municipalities in the state. Key messages Breastfeeding may be promoted by different perspectives and methods, not only in healthcare centers and with the transmission of information. Health policies about breastfeeding promotion may include people of all age groups and sex.