In a report supported by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) and entitled, Prevention for a Healthier America: Investments in Disease Prevention Yield Significant Savings, Stronger Communities, Trust for America’s Health (TFAH) found that an investment of $10 per person per year in community-based programs already proven to be effective could save the U.S. more than $16 billion annually within five years—a return of $5.60 for every $1 invested—but no mention is made of breastfeeding.

The report focuses on disease prevention programs that require no medical care and target communities or at-risk segments of communities, but no mention is made of breastfeeding.

The report cites as an example of these programs providing increased access to affordable nutritious foods, but no mention is made of breastfeeding.

The report credits community-based programs with reducing rates of type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, diseases known to be associated with not breastfeeding.

In a news release, James S. Marks, M.D., M.P.H., senior vice president and director of the health group at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation describes a need for “sustained investment in disease prevention programs that keep people from becoming sick, not just more treatment for those who are already ill,” but no mention is made of breastfeeding.

Sen. Tom Harkin (D-Iowa) is quoted as saying, “This report confirms what health care professionals have known for years—an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” but no mention is made of breastfeeding.”

Our country will never contain health care costs until we place a higher priority on preventive care,” said Rep. Kay Granger (R-Texas), but no mention is made of breastfeeding.

“There are numerous successful programs and models from around the country that we can expand and replicate to achieve the kind of results detailed in this report,” said Larry Cohen, executive director of Prevention Institute, but no mention is made of breastfeeding.

Can you sense my frustration?

As the single most cost-effective disease prevention strategy worldwide (yes, that includes the US), it’s time to put our money where it will have the greatest effect, do I need to mention breastfeeding?