The Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department, Lawrence Memorial Hospital and La Leche League of Lawrence are hosting a free screening of the documentary “Breastmilk” at the Lawrence Arts Center, 940 New Hampshire St., at 11 a.m. Saturday. The event, which is open to the public, is being held in recognition of World Breastfeeding Week.

One of the most highly effective preventive measures a mother can take to protect the health of her infant is to breastfeed. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months of age, with continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods up to 2 years of age or beyond. However, in Kansas, although most mothers hope to breastfeed, and 73 percent of babies start out being breastfed, only 15 percent are exclusively breastfed 6 months later.

“Breastmilk” takes an in-depth look at what happens among new parents who want to breastfeed and a whole culture that has made breastfeeding choices a matter of social debate.

At the movie premiere, there will be information about breastfeeding and breastfeeding support along with refreshments of milk and cookies. Donations also will be accepted to help establish a local breastfeeding coalition.