Multi-lateral action needed to curb high prevalence of anaemia in India: Experts
Movement Against Anaemia" campaign have emphasised the need for comprehensive and multi-lateral action to curb the high prevalence of anaemia in India. The health movement campaign was jointly launched by the Integrated Health and Wellbeing Council, a health think-tank, and Aishwarya Healthcare, a pharmaceutical firm, on Friday to counter the rise in anaemia in the country and create relevant awareness on the same.
Dr Shyam B Bansal, senior director and head of the nephrology and kidney transplant department at the Medanta Hospital in Gurugram, said, «Anaemia is a major challenge in chronic kidney disease and around 70 per cent kidney patients suffer from anaemia. We need safe and efficient solutions for iron deficiencies that are available to the larger part of the population.»
The summit witnessed experts from public health to medical practitioners sharing their insights on the prevalence of anaemia in the country.
Taking part in the roundtable, Dr Urvashi Prasad, Director-VC Office, NITI Aayog, said, «Anaemia is an issue that has multi-sectorial implications and a siloed approach cannot work. Screening and detection are equally important, especially of the vulnerable and tribal population.»
Anaemia is a pressing concern in India, with alarming statistics underscoring its prevalence in the population.
Data from the NFHS-5 (2019-21) shows 57 per cent women aged 15-49 years and 67 per cent children aged between six months and five years are affected by the condition.
Taking part in the discussion, Dr Ritu Jain, president, FOGSI, Gurgaon Obstetric and Gynaecology Society, emphasised on good food practices and the need to move to the life-course approach in women's health.
