24. Daibes, I., Kumar, B., and Awad, M. Marketing and Utilization of Breast milk Substitutes in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Jerusalem: UNICEF and Health, Development, Information and Policy Institute, 1997: 39 pp.

A study is presented of marketing and utilization of breast-milk substitutes based on surveying health care facilities, mothers and distributors in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Results indicate the lack of legislation or guidelines for marketing and distribution of breast milk substitutes. Practices of manufacturers and medical practitioners were generally not in compliance with the International Code of Marketing of Breast milk Substitutes. Education campaigns for medical practitioners are suggested in order to increase adherence with the Code, which is included in the appendix of the report. Other recommendations point to the need for introducing legislation that would oblige the adherence to the international Code. Community awareness campaigns about infant feeding practices are also needed.