What is HMBANA?
The Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of infants and children through the provision of safe and appropriate human milk. HMBANA serves as the professional association for milk banks in North America and sets the standards for the establishment and operation of these milk banks.
Why is HMBANA important?
Human milk is the optimal source of nutrition for infants, especially for premature and sick infants who may have difficulty digesting formula. It provides essential nutrients, antibodies, and other bioactive components that help protect against infections and promote healthy growth and development.
However, not all infants have access to their mother’s milk due to various reasons such as maternal illness, premature birth, or medical conditions that prevent breastfeeding. This is where HMBANA and its member milk banks play a crucial role in providing pasteurized donor human milk (PDHM) to those in need.
How does HMBANA ensure the safety of donated milk?
HMBANA sets rigorous guidelines and quality standards for milk banks to ensure the safety and quality of donated human milk. These guidelines cover every step of the milk banking process, from donor screening and milk collection to pasteurization and distribution.
Donors are carefully screened for infectious diseases and medications that may be harmful to the recipient infants. The donated milk undergoes thorough testing for bacteria and viruses before being pasteurized to eliminate any potential pathogens. The pasteurized milk is then stored and distributed in a controlled manner to maintain its safety and nutritional integrity.
How can you support HMBANA?
There are several ways to support HMBANA and its mission:
- Donate: Consider donating your excess breast milk to a HMBANA member milk bank. Your milk can make a significant difference in the lives of vulnerable infants.
- Volunteer: Many milk banks rely on volunteers to assist with various tasks, such as donor screening, milk processing, and administrative work. Contact your local milk bank to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
- Advocate: Spread awareness about the importance of human milk banking and the need for more donor milk. Share information about HMBANA and its member milk banks with your friends, family, and community.
Conclusion
HMBANA plays a vital role in ensuring that infants who cannot receive their mother’s milk have access to safe and appropriate donor human milk. By setting high standards for milk banks and promoting the importance of human milk, HMBANA contributes to the health and well-being of countless infants and children. Consider supporting HMBANA and its member milk banks to help give every child the best start in life.
Leave a Reply