This study examines the relationship between socialist ideology and the current negative health lifestyles of the Russian population. We explore the possibility that Soviet-style socialism with its negation of individuality and individual initiative in health matters promoted the development of a passive orientation toward healthy living. Using a national sample, we compare the health practices...

Background: Norway has since 1994 supported health care directed towards breastfeeding and the wellbeing of mothers and babies during pregnancy and childbirth, and the immediate post-partum period in Northwest Russia. After five years of implementing the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) 1994-1999 positive changes with increasing breastfeeding rates can be documented. While the BFHI conc...