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India's Hidden Crisis: Millions Suffer Anemia
18 Jan
Summary
- Iron deficiency is India's primary cause of anemia across many demographics.
- Anemia affects over 67% of children and 59% of adolescent girls in India.
- Early signs include fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, and unusual cravings.
Iron deficiency is a critical public health concern in India, serving as the leading cause of anemia across various population groups. The National Family Health Survey-5 highlights its pervasive impact, with anemia affecting 67.1% of children aged 6-59 months and 59.1% of adolescent girls. This widespread issue is linked to insufficient iron, folate, and vitamin B12 intake.
The symptoms of anemia, often starting subtly, include persistent fatigue and weakness due to insufficient oxygen transport. Individuals may also notice pale or yellowish skin, shortness of breath even with mild exertion, rapid or irregular heartbeats, and persistent headaches or dizziness. Additionally, cold extremities, unusual cravings for non-food items, and brittle nails or hair loss are significant indicators.
Launched in 2018, the Anemia Mukt Bharat strategy by the Indian government aims to combat this crisis. Early identification of anemia's warning signs is crucial for implementing necessary lifestyle and dietary changes. Awareness of symptoms like extreme tiredness, paleness, and breathlessness can facilitate timely diagnosis and management, mitigating long-term health risks.
