Fe is the chemical symbol of iron. Fe are also the first 2 letters that spell female. But, ironically, there is a lack of Fe in females. The prevalence of iron deficiency and Iron deficiency anemia in Indian women is over 50%, meaning 1 in every 2 women may have Iron deficiency which when chronic can lead to iron deficiency anemia.
Causes of iron deficiency:
Increased requirement of iron example in adolescence, pregnancy etc.
Menstrual blood loss
Blood loss due to certain infections, infestations and other pathologies
Lack of nutrient rich food
Effects of iron deficiency anemia:
Iron deficiency and Iron deficiency anemia can affect-
Physical growth
Mental growth and development
Immune response
Healthy pregnancy
Even though there are various measures taken by the Indian government at primary health care level, there is a huge prevalence of anemia. Improved measures should be implemented focusing on nutrition and personal health to help prevent iron deficiency and related anemia.
What are some measures that you can suggest to work on the iron deficiency crisis?
It is true. Iron deficiency is prevalent in Indian females. Increase in awareness of symptoms of IDA at grass root levels, conducting free Health Camps, in areas with limited health care facilities. I believe fortification of different foods with Iron should be done, so that more of it gets absorbed in the body; what I have observed is that intake of Iron tablets causes nausea, so patient compliance is poor sometimes, maybe it can be made more palatable. Also, duration of refraining from conceiving after delivery should be minimum 1.5 - 2 years, so that the female body can restore iron reserve and recover from blood loss, intake Iron rich diet - are some of the measures I believe can help in fighting Iron deficiency crisis.
The most important measure is to bring awareness regarding iron deficiency in women. A lot of females dont even realise that they need to overcome this deficiency.
People can be educated about dietary adjustments for better absorption of iron.
Cooking in iron utensils can be helpful too.
True. IDA is a public health concern that significantly affect women’s health. Nutritional awareness, early screening and iron supplementation may be helpful.
Conducting camps especially in schools and colleges is an effective way of creating awareness about the iron deficiency. Iron tablets is being compulsorily given to all pregnant women thus reducing the iron deficiency in pregnant women.