[Breastfeeding in developing countries: update and current recommendations].

Data from numerous surveys conducted by UNICEF using standardized methods in most developing countries over the last 10 years now enable evaluation of the status of breastfeeding in the world. The purpose of this report is to present findings concerning the duration of exclusive breastfeeding, appropriate complementary feeding, and continued breastfeeding after 6 months. Analysis of these data indicates that progress is being made but that various problems remain. In an effort to improve the situation, the WHO/UNICEF has undertaken a number of initiatives and issued several recommendations.