Addressing the Rising Concern of Anaemia Among Urban Women in India

Anaemia on the Rise: A Growing Health Concern for Urban Women in India

Anaemia has emerged as a major health concern for urban women in India, with the number of affected individuals steadily increasing each year. According to the latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), the prevalence of anaemia among women has risen to a concerning 57% in 2019-2021, up from 53% in 2015-16.

The report highlighted a significant disparity in anaemia prevalence between non-pregnant women (57.2%) and pregnant women (52.2%), with the Ministry of Health attributing this difference to the inadequate intake of iron and folic acid supplements during pregnancy.

Anaemia is a condition characterized by a low count of red blood cells or haemoglobin levels, which can impair the blood’s ability to carry oxygen. Common symptoms include fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. Factors such as age, sex, altitude, smoking, and pregnancy can influence the necessary haemoglobin concentration in the body.

Indian adolescent females are particularly vulnerable to anaemia due to menstruation and pregnancy, with the condition sometimes indicating more severe underlying health issues. Diagnosis typically involves a medical history, physical examination, and testing. While the importance of a nutritious diet is widely emphasized, unhealthy lifestyle choices such as excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to anaemia.

Vegetarian Indians, in particular, are at a higher risk of anaemia as popular vegetarian recipes often do not meet daily iron requirements. Unlike in industrialized nations where fortified vegetarian foods and supplemental iron are readily available, access to these resources remains limited in India.

Addressing the issue of anaemia among urban females in India requires a comprehensive approach that includes improving access to iron and folic acid supplements, promoting awareness about the importance of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle choices, and collecting more data on anaemia prevalence and risk factors to inform targeted interventions and policies.

By taking proactive measures to address anaemia, India can work towards reducing the burden of this condition and enhancing the overall health and well-being of its female population.

(Dr. Rahul Bhargava, Principal Director & Chief BMT, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram)