Human Milk Banking Association of North America

File:HMBANA logo.png

Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA)

The Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA) is a non-profit organization that promotes the establishment and operation of human milk banks in North America. HMBANA sets standards for donor milk collection, processing, and distribution to ensure the safety and quality of donor human milk.

History

HMBANA was founded in 1985 to address the growing need for safe and reliable sources of donor human milk. The organization was established by a group of healthcare professionals, including neonatologists, lactation consultants, and other experts in maternal and child health.

Mission

The mission of HMBANA is to promote the health of babies and mothers through the provision of safe, pasteurized donor human milk. The organization aims to support breastfeeding, provide education on the benefits of human milk, and ensure that donor milk is available to infants in need, particularly those in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).

Standards and Guidelines

HMBANA sets rigorous standards for the operation of human milk banks. These standards cover all aspects of milk banking, including:

• Donor screening and selection
• Milk collection and storage
• Pasteurization and processing
• Quality control and testing
• Distribution and tracking

These guidelines are designed to ensure the safety and quality of donor milk, protecting both donors and recipients.

Membership and Accreditation

HMBANA offers membership to human milk banks, healthcare professionals, and other stakeholders interested in supporting the organization's mission. Accredited milk banks must adhere to HMBANA's standards and undergo regular audits to maintain their accreditation.

Education and Advocacy

HMBANA provides education and training for healthcare providers, milk bank staff, and the public. The organization also advocates for policies that support breastfeeding and the use of donor human milk. HMBANA collaborates with other organizations, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization, to promote the benefits of human milk.

Research

HMBANA supports and conducts research on the benefits of donor human milk and the best practices for milk banking. The organization publishes findings and provides resources for researchers and healthcare providers.

See also

• Breastfeeding
• Lactation
• Neonatal care
• Pasteurization
• Donor milk

External links

   This article is a medical stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!