Breastfeeding as a public health investment: a narrative review of evidence on economic value

Abstract Background Breastfeeding improves infant and maternal health, reducing mortality, disease, and healthcare costs. Despite global recommendations, exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) remains suboptimal due to various factors including formula marketing and maternal employment. Limited economic value evidence hinders policy development. This narrative review examines the economic value of breastfeeding to strengthen the case for promoting, protecting, and supporting breastfeeding initiatives. Methods We searched PubMed, ProQuest, Web of Science, and Scopus databases for studies from 1999 to February 2025 on the economic value of breastfeeding and breast milk. Eligible studies were screened, extracted, and analysed. All reported costs were adjusted to 2024 U.S. dollars using annual national exchange rates and U.S. inflation rates. Results We reviewed 26 articles across diverse income settings. Breastfeeding-related cost savings varied widely, with global breast milk value