The warning, published jointly by the United Nations agencies and the regional socio-economic Saarc on Wednesday, underlines the status of South Asia as a “world epicenter” of anemia among adolescent girls and women.
It is estimated that 259 million already suffers from the condition, which alters the body’s ability to transport oxygen, contributing to chronic fatigue, poor maternal results and the reduction of educational and economic participation.
“” This is a call for Clarion actionSaid Sanjay Wijsekera, regional director of the United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef), which with the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) and Saarc have prepared the analysis.
“” When half of all adolescent girls and women in South Asia are anemic, it is not only a health problem – it is a signal that systems fail them.“”
A very large but avoidable condition
Anemia does not only affect women and girls – it contributes 40% of low -world birth weights in the world and affects children’s growth and learning, especially in the poorest households.
The economic assessment is amazing: Anemia costs in South Asia, around $ 32.5 billion a year, perpetuating poverty cycles and poor health.
However, the condition is avoidable and treatable. The proven solutions include iron and folic acid supplementation, regimes rich in iron and vitamins, better sanitation and stronger infections and maternal health services.
Experts stress that multisectoral collaboration is essential for sustained progress.
A nurse speaks to women of nutrients in the Sabarkantha district of Western India, many women and girls suffered from iron deficiency.
Crucial integrated efforts
In almost all countries, progress depends on the strengthening of health systems, the expansion of nutritional programs and the achievement of adolescent girls and women in marginalized communities.
Sri Lanka, where 18.5% of reproductive women are anemic, increases its national nutrition initiative, focusing on the most affected districts.
India and Pakistan also see encouraging signs. In India, high washing states integrate iron supplementation in school and maternal care programs. Pakistan has piloted community nutrition initiatives linked to reproductive health services, allowing early detection and monitoring care.
In Bangladesh, health initiatives in schools reach adolescents with fortified meals and health education, coordinates between the Ministries of Health, Education and Agriculture.
Community -based action operates
The Maldives and Bhutan prioritize early prevention through infant nutrition campaigns, food fortification and public awareness. Although smaller in the population, the two invest in the surveillance of anemia and inter -ministerial collaboration.
Nepal is distinguished by its fair results: since 2016, the country has reduced anemia in women of reproductive age by 7%, with larger decreases in poorer areas. His women volunteers of community health are essential, providing advice and references in remote regions and linking vulnerable households to public services.
The Kumari Gurung man, a public health nurse in the province of Karnali, attributes the achievements to a range of efforts focused on the community.
“Pregnant women receive eggs, chicken and nutrients thanks to programs like Sutkeri Poshan Koseli (Nutrition gift for new mothers), “she said. »Speption in cash also helps transport in hospitals, supporting safer births and better nutrition. “”
A nurse checks the weight of a pregnant woman and the vital signs in a clinic in Galigamuwa, Sri Lanka.
Everyone has a role
The end of anemia requires leadership and teamwork. Governments must lead, but communities, health workers, schools and families all play a role.
Stronger health systems, better data and coordinated actions in all sectors can help girls and women reach their full potential – build healthier communities and stronger economies.
“” Young people and mothers are at the heart of the development objectives of South Asia. Ensure that they are in good health, nourished and authorized is not only a moral imperative, it is a strategic investment in the future of our companies,“Said Md. Golam Sarwar, Secretary General of Saarc.
Publicado anteriormente en Almouwatin.
