Breastfeeding promotion: a rational and achievable target for a type 2 diabetes prevention intervention in Native American communities.

Type 2 diabetes is a serious, costly, and increasingly common disease among Native American communities. Increasing evidence suggests that early infant nutrition, particularly breastfeeding, may have a significant impact on the development of diabetes in later life. In this report, the authors describe the scientific basis and development of an innovative program that targets promotion of breastfeeding among Native women as a type 2 diabetes prevention intervention. The program materials, evaluation methods, and outcomes are presented. By developing and sharing strategies that effectively support breastfeeding, the impact of diabetes in Native American communities will be reduced.