As part of the efforts of the Faculty of Nursing, Helwan University, to enhance health and family awareness within the community, the Pediatric Nursing Department organized an awareness convoy for mothers at Al-Zahraa University Hospital. The event was held under the patronage of Prof. Afaf Salah Abdel Mohsen, Acting Dean of the Faculty of Nursing, led by Prof. Zeinab Hussein Ali, Vice Dean for Community Service and Environmental Development, and supervised by Prof. Ezza Abdel Samee Aliewa, Head of the Department.
The convoy focused on highlighting the importance of breastfeeding for both mother and child and its vital role in supporting healthy growth and strengthening immunity. Breastfeeding was emphasized as the cornerstone of a child’s health during the first months of life, as it provides complete nutritional elements and antibodies that protect infants from infections and common diseases. The significant benefits of breastfeeding for maternal health were also addressed, including reducing the risk of postpartum hemorrhage, supporting the return to normal body weight, and lowering the risk of breast cancer.
The event included a comprehensive explanation of proper breastfeeding techniques and how to deal with common challenges that mothers may face. In addition, mothers were educated on the importance of exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months, with continued breastfeeding alongside complementary feeding until the age of two years or beyond, due to its numerous health, psychological, and social benefits.
The convoy was organized under the supervision of Assistant Lecturer Doaa Shehata and with active participation from third-year students, reflecting the Faculty’s ongoing efforts to support educational initiatives aimed at building a healthy and informed community. The initiative also encouraged mothers to adopt breastfeeding as the optimal choice for their children’s health, contributing to the Faculty’s mission of community service and achieving a sustainable positive impact
