WHO:Dr. George Flores, Public Health Officer, County of San Diego
Dr. Janna Cataldo, San Diego Breastfeeding Coalition
Rene Vega, Medical Director, Aetna US Healthcare, San Diego Offices

WHAT:The Fifth Annual Breastfeeding-Friendly Workplace Award will be presented to Aetna US Healthcare by the San Diego Breastfeeding Coalition in celebration of World Breastfeeding Week, Aug. 1-7.

Aetna US Healthcare was selected based on its commitment to support breastfeeding employees through its Corporate Lactation Program, ensuring a smooth transition back to work for moms following maternity leave. Support begins before a mother delivers with breastfeeding education classes.

Additionally, Aetna offers flexible work schedules, a comfortable, private room on each floor for nursing mothers, state-of-the-art breast pumps, and a free carrying case for expressed milk upon employees' return to work. Nursing mothers have unlimited, 24-hour access to a breastfeeding consultant who assists with questions or concerns.

WHEN:11 am - Friday August 4, 2000

WHERE:Aetna US HealthCare
7676 Hazard Center Drive, San Diego

WHY:World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated internationally every year from August 1 to 7. This year's theme is "Breastfeeding: It's Your Right,"focusing on the need to protect, promote and support the rights of all mothers and children to breastfeed. Breastfeeding provides ideal nutrition for infants, lowers infant mortality, and reduces a mother's risk of breast and ovarian cancer.

The San Diego County Breastfeeding Coalition is a non-profit association of health care professionals which promotes and supports breastfeeding through professional education and community outreach. The San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency is a supportive member of the coalition's work.

Editor's Note: Mother's who have participated in the program will be available for interviews.

Ceremonial Photos - Click on a thumbnail to view a full-size image