CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Under the Anemia Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, a workshop was organized by the Bhopal Health Department to promote awareness and increased consumption of iron. The workshop was attended by religious leaders, social influencers, representatives from the Women and Child Development Department, the Education Department, and various social organizations. Participants were informed about the adverse effects caused by anemia deficiency and the measures for its prevention.
During the workshop, religious leaders and social influencers were given detailed information about anemia. They were also briefed on the free services being provided under the Anemia Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. The religious leaders present assured their support in spreading awareness about anemia prevention through religious places as well as social and religious events. They also committed to cooperating in promoting vaccination awareness in vaccine-resistant areas.
To prevent anemia, children aged 6 to 59 months are given 1 ml iron drops twice a week by ASHA workers. Similarly, children aged 5 to 10 years are provided with pink iron tablets, while adolescents aged 11 to 19 years receive blue iron tablets through schools. Pregnant women, postnatal mothers, and women of reproductive age (20 to 49 years) are also given iron tablets regularly.
Addressing the workshop, District Immunization Officer Dr. Ritesh Rawat explained that weakness, numbness in hands and feet, shortness of breath, dizziness and fainting, lack of concentration, heaviness and pain in the head are major symptoms of anemia. Anemia is also a key reason behind children getting tired easily and becoming irritable. Iron deficiency leads to fatigue, breathlessness, numbness in limbs, headaches, and frequent illnesses. Lack of intake of iron-rich foods, intestinal worms, menstrual blood loss, and not consuming the recommended IFA doses result in iron deficiency in the body.
Chief Medical and Health Officer, Bhopal, Dr. Manish Sharma stated that a “Test, Treat, and Talk” strategy has been adopted to address iron deficiency. For anemia testing, strip-based hemoglobinometer machines are being used, which can determine hemoglobin levels in less than one minute. This campaign is being implemented through coordinated efforts of the Health Department, Women and Child Development Department, and Education Department. Iron supplementation helps reduce illness among children and improves school attendance. During pregnancy, intake of IFA tablets enhances immunity, while folic acid improves brain function.
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