What did the survey in Erode district reveal about young pregnant women?

The survey in Kerala's Erode district revealed that a majority of young pregnant women were school dropouts.

What are the health consequences of early marriages and pregnancies mentioned?

Early marriages and pregnancies can lead to severe physical and mental health complications for women, such as anemia and high blood pressure, as well as low birth weight and other health problems in children.

What actions are being taken in Erode district regarding school dropouts and early marriages?

Coordinated efforts are underway to identify school dropouts, provide counseling, ensure their re-enrollment, and raise awareness about the consequences of early-age marriages and pregnancies.

Home / Health / Kerala's Hidden Crisis: Early Pregnancies Fuel School Dropouts

Kerala's Hidden Crisis: Early Pregnancies Fuel School Dropouts

24 Jan

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Summary

Most young pregnant women surveyed were school dropouts.
Early marriages cause severe physical and mental health issues.
Coordinated action needed to re-enroll dropouts and raise awareness.

Kerala's Hidden Crisis: Early Pregnancies Fuel School Dropouts

A survey in Kerala's Erode district has brought to light a significant challenge: a majority of young pregnant women are school dropouts. This situation is directly linked to early-age marriages, according to District Collector S. Kandasamy. The findings emerged from a meeting of an Expert Committee discussing the impact of such marriages and subsequent pregnancies.

District officials noted that early pregnancies result in serious health problems for women, including anemia and high blood pressure, and can lead to premature deliveries and increased maternal mortality. Children born from these unions often suffer from low birth weight and other health issues. The Collector stressed that early marriages also negatively impact girls' education and future prospects.

In response, a call for coordinated action was made. All departments are urged to collaborate in identifying school dropouts, offering them counseling, and facilitating their return to school. Awareness campaigns in schools and villages are also planned to educate the community about the detrimental effects of early-age marriages and pregnancies.