Anaemia remains a significant public health challenge in India, particularly among women of reproductive age (15–49 years). Recent data indicates that approximately 57% of women in this demographic are affected by anaemia, reflecting a 4% increase from previous assessments.
This high prevalence is concerning, especially considering the World Health Organization’s (WHO) global target to reduce anaemia among women of reproductive age by 50% by 2025. However, progress has been limited, and achieving this target remains a significant challenge.
Contributing Factors:
Several factors contribute to the high rates of anaemia among Indian women:
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Nutritional Deficiencies: Inadequate intake of essential nutrients, particularly iron, vitamin A, riboflavin, and folate, plays a crucial role in the development of anaemia.
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Health Conditions: Chronic diseases, heavy menstrual bleeding, infections such as malaria and tuberculosis, and genetic disorders like sickle cell disease and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency are significant contributors.
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Socioeconomic Factors: Lower socioeconomic status, limited access to healthcare, and inadequate health education exacerbate the risk of anaemia.
Implications:
Anaemia in women leads to various adverse health outcomes, including fatigue, diminished work capacity, and increased susceptibility to infections. During pregnancy, anaemia is associated with higher risks of maternal morbidity, preterm birth, low birth weight, and perinatal mortality.
Recommendations:
To address this pressing issue, a multifaceted approach is essential:
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Nutritional Interventions: Enhance access to iron-rich foods and promote dietary diversification to include essential micronutrients.
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Supplementation Programs: Implement widespread iron and folic acid supplementation, particularly targeting adolescent girls and pregnant women.
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Health Education: Increase awareness about anaemia prevention, symptoms, and treatment options through community outreach and educational campaigns.
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Healthcare Access: Improve access to quality healthcare services for early detection and management of anaemia and its underlying causes.
Addressing anaemia among Indian women requires concerted efforts from government agencies, healthcare providers, and communities to implement effective interventions and achieve meaningful reductions in prevalence.
