Iron Drips Transform Maternal Anemia Care in India

In India, a significant rise in anemia among pregnant women has prompted states like Rajasthan and Karnataka to adopt intravenous (IV) iron supplementation as a critical intervention. This approach addresses the persistent issue of poor compliance with oral iron and folic acid tablets, often exacerbated by unpleasant side effects. The recent availability of a more affordable single-dose IV iron supplement, Ferric Carboxymaltose (FCM), following its patent expiry in 2023, has made this treatment a viable option for public health programs.

The new IV FCM supplement offers improved outcomes for both mothers and infants by effectively correcting anemia. Rajasthan initiated a pilot program after studies demonstrated FCM's efficacy, while Karnataka is rolling it out across multiple districts. A digital application, Garbha Sutra, has also been launched to assist healthcare providers in calculating precise dosages based on individual patient metrics, ensuring targeted treatment.

This initiative comes at a crucial time, as recent National Family Health Survey data (2019-2021) indicates an increase in anemia prevalence across all age groups, including a concerning rise to 52.2% in pregnant women. The affordability of IV FCM, now as low as Rs 170 per formulation, compared to its previous cost of approximately Rs 2,300, is a key factor enabling its wider implementation, offering renewed hope in the fight against maternal anemia.