Anaemia Mukt Bharat: A National Movement Towards Healthier Lives

Anaemia, a condition characterised by a deficiency of red blood cells or haemoglobin, affects millions of people across India, particularly women and children. Recognizing the profound impact of anaemia on the nation's health and development, the Government of India launched the Anaemia Mukt Bharat (AMB) initiative in 2018, under the National Health Mission. This ambitious program aims to reduce the prevalence of anaemia across the country, with a special focus on the most vulnerable populations.

The Burden of Anaemia in India

Anaemia is a significant public health challenge in India. According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), over 50% of women and children in India suffer from some form of anaemia. The condition is particularly prevalent among pregnant women, adolescent girls, and young children, where it can lead to serious health consequences such as increased maternal and child mortality, poor pregnancy outcomes, impaired cognitive and physical development, and reduced work productivity.

The high prevalence of anaemia in India is attributed to several factors, including poor dietary intake of iron and other micronutrients, high rates of infection, and limited access to healthcare services. For those who have access to supplements, they find them constipating and difficult.

Social determinants such as poverty, gender inequality, and lack of education further exacerbate the issue, making it a multifaceted problem that requires a comprehensive approach.

The Anaemia Mukt Bharat Strategy

Anaemia Mukt Bharat is a targeted strategy to combat this widespread health issue. The program's primary goal is to reduce the prevalence of anaemia among children, adolescents, women of reproductive age, and pregnant women by 3 percentage points per year. To achieve this, AMB has adopted a multi-pronged approach, focusing on the following key interventions:

1. Prophylactic Iron and Folic Acid Supplementation: One of the cornerstones of the AMB strategy is the provision of iron and folic acid (IFA) supplements to at-risk populations, including pregnant and lactating women, adolescents, and children. These supplements help to address iron deficiency, which is a major cause of anaemia.

2. Deworming: Parasitic infections, particularly helminths, are a significant cause of anaemia in India. The AMB initiative includes regular deworming campaigns to reduce the burden of these infections, thereby contributing to the reduction of anaemia.

3. Intensified Year-Round Behaviour Change Communication (BCC): The success of the AMB initiative relies heavily on raising awareness about anaemia and promoting healthy behaviours. The program includes a robust BCC strategy to educate communities about the importance of nutrition, hygiene, and the use of IFA supplements.

4. Testing and Treatment of Anaemia Using Digital Methods: The AMB initiative leverages digital tools to enhance the screening and treatment of anaemia. This includes the use of digital hemoglobinometers for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of anaemia in healthcare settings.

5. Mandatory Provision of IFA Fortified Foods in Public Health Programs: To address micronutrient deficiencies at a population level, the AMB initiative mandates the inclusion of IFA-fortified foods in public health programs such as the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and the Mid-Day Meal (MDM) scheme.

6. Addressing Non-Nutritional Causes of Anaemia: While nutritional deficiencies are a major cause of anaemia, the AMB initiative also addresses non-nutritional factors such as malaria, inherited blood disorders, and chronic diseases, which contribute to the high prevalence of anaemia in India.

Progress and Impact

Since its launch, Anaemia Mukt Bharat has made significant strides in addressing the anaemia burden in India. The initiative has brought about greater awareness of anaemia and its consequences, leading to increased demand for IFA supplements and improved healthcare-seeking behaviour among the target populations. Through its multi-sectoral approach, AMB has also strengthened the integration of nutrition and health services, leading to better coordination and more effective delivery of interventions.

The impact of the AMB initiative is being closely monitored through various surveys and studies, with early results indicating a positive trend in the reduction of anaemia prevalence. However, the battle is far from over. Continued efforts are needed to sustain and accelerate progress, particularly in hard-to-reach areas and among marginalized communities.

Challenges and the Way Forward

Despite the progress made, the Anaemia Mukt Bharat initiative faces several challenges. These include logistical issues in the distribution of IFA supplements, gaps in awareness and education, and persistent social and economic barriers that hinder access to healthcare. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted health services, including those related to anaemia prevention and treatment, posing a significant setback to the program’s goals.

To overcome these challenges, it is crucial to strengthen the health infrastructure, enhance community engagement, and ensure that interventions are culturally sensitive and inclusive. Collaboration between government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector will be key to scaling up efforts and achieving the vision of an anaemia-free India.

Anaemia Mukt Bharat represents a critical step towards improving the health and well-being of millions of Indians, particularly women and children. By addressing the root causes of anaemia through a comprehensive and multi-sectoral approach, the initiative aims to break the cycle of poor health and poverty that anaemia perpetuates.

As the program continues to evolve, its success will depend on sustained commitment, innovation, and collaboration at all levels of society. With continued effort, Anaemia Mukt Bharat has the potential to transform lives and contribute to a healthier, more prosperous India.