Background and Objectives: Breast milk is the best source of nutrition for infants; however, its safety can be threatened by toxic contaminants like heavy metals. Maternal smoking—both active and passive—raises these harmful metal levels in breast milk, putting infants at serious risk. This policy brief compiles recent findings from western Iran and suggests strategic policies to protect infant health.
Methods: This brief is based on a review from western Iran that analyzed levels of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and lead (Pb) in the breast milk of active smokers, women exposed to secondhand smoke, and non-smokers. The findings were translated into actionable policy recommendations through careful evaluation of regulatory, educational, clinical, and environmental strategies.
Policy Options: Six interrelated policy options are proposed: (1) strengthening regulatory frameworks and enforcement to limit tobacco exposure in public spaces and around pregnant and breastfeeding women; (2) improving public awareness and education through culturally sensitive campaigns; (3) enhancing accessible smoking-cessation support integrated into maternal and child healthcare; (4) minimizing toxic-metal exposure via safer agricultural practices and detoxification approaches; (5) fostering collaboration and coordination among government, healthcare, academic, and community stakeholders; and (6) promoting breastfeeding support while ensuring smoke-free environments. Complementary strategies include research and surveillance and international collaboration.
Conclusion: By adopting this comprehensive approach, we can effectively reduce toxic metal exposure for breastfed infants, safeguard maternal and child health, and position Iran as a leader in maternal and child health policy.