Supported by experts and neonatal leaders, the initiative aims to reduce risks for preterm infants and promote breastfeeding awareness.
Ankura Hospital for Women and Children has taken a significant step to enhance
neonatal care with the inauguration of the ‘Ankura-Dhaatri Milk Bank’ at its LB
Nagar branch. The initiative was inaugurated by Prof. Praveen Kumar, Head of
Neonatology at PGIMER, Chandigarh, and witnessed the presence of eminent
dignitaries, including Dr. Srisailam Kothuru (President, NNF Telangana), Dr.
Srinidhi Thirunagari (Director, Ankura Hospital), Dr. Vijay Kumar
(Superintendent, Niloufer Hospital), and Dr. Santosh Kumar Kraleti (General
Secretary, Sushena Health Foundation). This pioneering facility aims to provide
safe, screened, and pasteurized breast milk from healthy donor mothers to
premature and critically ill newborns, offering them a stronger chance at
survival and healthy development.
Breast milk is widely regarded as nature’s perfect food for infants, containing
a unique blend of antibodies, enzymes, and white blood cells that protect
against infections while supporting overall growth. It has been proven to reduce
the risk of long-term health conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and certain
cancers. Beyond its nutritional value, breastfeeding strengthens the bond
between mother and child and benefits mothers by reducing the risk of certain
cancers, diabetes, and aiding recovery after childbirth. For fragile and
premature babies, the availability of breast milk is often life-saving, helping
to prevent conditions like Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC), which is common in
preterm infants.
Speaking at the launch, Prof. Praveen Kumar said, “A human milk bank is not
just a healthcare facility—it is a lifeline of love and science. Every drop of
donor milk can save a fragile baby’s life, and initiatives like these bring
hope to families during their most challenging times.”
Dr. Srinivas Murki, Chief Neonatologist at Ankura Hospital, LB Nagar,
emphasized, “Breast milk is the most complete and digestible food for newborns.
The first feed—colostrum—given within one hour of birth is rich in antibodies
and DHA, essential for brain development. It boosts immunity and supports
healthy gut bacteria. For premature and critically ill babies, donor milk can
truly make the difference between life and death.”
Adding to this, Dr. Srisailam Kothuru remarked, “The establishment of a
dedicated milk bank in Hyderabad is a milestone for neonatal health in
Telangana. It sets a strong example for hospitals across the state to
prioritize human milk as the gold standard for infant nutrition.”
Dr. K. P. Vunnam, Founder of Ankura Hospital, added, “We are proud to launch
the Ankura-Dhaatri Milk Bank, which is integrated with all NICUs across Ankura
Hospitals. This initiative ensures that even the most vulnerable babies receive
optimal nutrition and care. We have a dedicated team of neonatologists,
lactation consultants, and nurses committed to guiding and supporting mothers
with breastfeeding and milk expression, creating a culture of awareness and
compassion.”
The hospital is also inviting healthy lactating mothers to come forward and
donate excess milk to support newborns who need it the most. Interested donors
can register by contacting the Ankura-Dhaatri Milk Bank at 9866399788. With
this initiative, Ankura Hospital reinforces its commitment to ensuring that
every child, regardless of circumstances, receives the best possible start in
life.
Comments
Post a Comment