Anaemia: common, and often preventable
More than half of Indian women and two in three young children are anaemic. Here is what that means and what helps.
Anaemia means the blood carries less oxygen than the body needs, because there is too little haemoglobin. It is one of India's most widespread health problems. According to the latest National Family Health Survey, 57 per cent of women aged 15 to 49 and 67 per cent of children aged six months to five years are anaemic. Both figures rose from the survey before.
How it feels
Mild anaemia can feel like ordinary tiredness. As it deepens, it can bring breathlessness on stairs, a racing heart, headaches, poor concentration, pale skin and brittle nails. In children it can affect growth and learning. In pregnancy it raises risks for mother and baby.
Why it happens
Iron deficiency is the most common cause, often because of diets low in iron, poor absorption or blood loss through heavy periods. Deficiencies of vitamin B12 and folate cause other forms, which are common among vegetarians. Infections, worms and some long-term illnesses also play a part.
What helps
- Get tested. A simple blood count tells you whether you are anaemic. Further tests show why.
- Pair iron with vitamin C. Lemon on dal, amla with meals or fruit after food improves iron absorption from plants.
- Space out tea and coffee. Drinking them with meals reduces iron absorption.
- Know the iron-rich foods. Leafy greens, pulses, ragi, sesame, eggs, fish and meat.
- Mind B12. Vegetarians may need a supplement. Ask your doctor.
- Treat the cause. Heavy periods, piles or worms need attention, not only iron.
Anaemia is common, but it is not inevitable. It is one of the few health problems where testing is cheap, treatment is effective and the difference to daily life can be felt within weeks.
This article is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor.