Doorstep Anemia Screening Boosts Health

A novel doorstep screening and treatment strategy, named STAR, has shown significant success in combating anemia, particularly among adolescent girls and women in India. The initiative, tested in 14 villages in Telangana, brought anemia checks and iron-folic acid supplements directly to participants' homes, leading to a notable decrease in anemia prevalence.

The research indicated a more than 15% drop in anemia among girls aged 10-19, accompanied by a rise in their average hemoglobin levels. Women of reproductive age also experienced improvements, with anemia rates falling by 4.4%. This community-wide approach contrasts with existing national programs that often rely on facility-based screening, potentially missing large population segments.

Despite these positive outcomes, the study highlighted challenges in consistent supplement intake, with only about a third of individuals regularly taking their prescribed treatment. Researchers emphasize that enhanced counseling, behavior change communication, and supportive follow-up mechanisms are essential to maximize the effectiveness of such public health interventions and accelerate progress against anemia.