Half of Indian Women Suffer From Anaemia, How Can We Solve This

Read that again. Half of the Indian women suffer from anaemia. Let's put this under a microscope to get to know it better. In layman's terms, it's a condition where the body doesn't have enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to your body's tissues. The high prevalence of anaemia among Indian women is a cause for concern and requires a deeper understanding of its leading causes.

According to recent studies by NCBI, approximately half of Indian women suffer from anaemia. Anaemia is a condition characterised by a deficiency of red blood cells or haemoglobin, which reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen to various parts of the body. This can lead to fatigue, weakness, and other health complications. 

Absence of Total Iron Support

One of the primary causes is nutritional deficiencies, particularly iron deficiency. Iron is essential for the production of haemoglobin, and a lack of iron-rich foods in the diet can lead to anaemia. Poor dietary habits, limited access to nutritious food, and cultural practices that restrict certain food groups can all contribute to inadequate iron intake. Additionally, women often experience increased iron requirements due to menstruation and pregnancy, making them more susceptible to anaemia.

Inadequate healthcare and limited access to quality healthcare services also contribute to the high prevalence of anaemia among Indian women. Many women in rural areas lack access to proper healthcare facilities, making it difficult to receive timely diagnosis and treatment. Lack of awareness about anaemia and its symptoms further delays diagnosis and intervention. This highlights the need for improved healthcare infrastructure, awareness campaigns, and targeted interventions to address anaemia among Indian women.

What happens to people with anaemia?

It's the F-word. Massive fatigue amongst other signs of tiredness is a consequence of lack of iron.

Another important consequence of anaemia is shortness of breath. When the body lacks sufficient red blood cells, the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood is compromised, making it harder for individuals to breathe properly, especially during physical exertion.

People with anaemia may also experience dizziness and lightheadedness. The inadequate oxygen supply to the brain can lead to feelings of dizziness, faintness, and difficulty maintaining balance.

In severe cases of anaemia, individuals may develop complications such as an irregular or rapid heartbeat. The heart works harder to compensate for the reduced oxygen levels, which can result in palpitations or an increased heart rate.

Anaemia can also impact cognitive function and concentration. Insufficient oxygen supply to the brain can affect mental clarity, memory, and overall cognitive performance.

In addition to these symptoms, anaemia can have a negative impact on the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses.

Anaemia can lead to pale skin, as the reduced number of red blood cells affects the skin's colouration. This can be particularly noticeable in the face, lips, and nail beds.

We in India are so deeply iron-deficient, that we have accepted suffering from it. This is hugely problematic and must be rectified.

Here are some ways in which anaemia can be addressed steadily and surely. 

To fix anaemia, it is important to first identify the underlying cause. Anaemia can be caused by various factors such as iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, chronic diseases, or genetic disorders. Therefore, a thorough medical evaluation is necessary to determine the specific cause of anaemia in each individual. Once the cause is identified, appropriate treatment can be initiated to address the root problem and alleviate the symptoms of anemia.

One common cause of anaemia is iron deficiency. To address this, it is important to consume a diet rich in iron. Foods such as red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, spinach, and fortified cereals are excellent sources of iron. Additionally, consuming foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and bell peppers, can enhance iron absorption. In some cases, iron supplements may be prescribed by a healthcare professional to help replenish iron levels in the body.

Another cause of anaemia is vitamin B12 deficiency. To fix this type of anaemia, it is important to consume foods that are high in vitamin B12, such as meat, fish, dairy products, and fortified cereals. For individuals with a severe deficiency or those who have difficulty absorbing vitamin B12 from food, vitamin B12 injections or supplements may be recommended. Always speak to a doctor or health expert before opting for any of these supplements or injections.

Overall, fixing anaemia requires a comprehensive approach to nutrition (when it is not linked to chronic diseases) that involves identifying the underlying cause and implementing appropriate treatment strategies. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment recommendations. By addressing the root cause and following the recommended treatment plan, individuals can effectively manage anaemia and improve their overall well-being.

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