Thursday, July 10, 2025
spot_img

M’laya grapples with high rates of childhood anaemia

Date:

Share post:

spot_imgspot_img

SHILLONG, Jan 15: Meghalaya is grappling with a silent but severe health crisis—childhood anaemia. A recent study has revealed that nearly 47.2% of children aged 0-6 years in the state suffer from some form of anaemia, mirroring the concerning trends in other Northeastern states.
The study paints a grim picture of childhood anaemia in Northeastern India. Arunachal Pradesh (44.7%), Nagaland (47.1%), and Manipur (42.5%) share similar statistics with Meghalaya. Interestingly, these figures contrast with NFHS-3 findings, which reported that less than half of the children in these states were anaemic. This apparent improvement, however, does little to offset the endemicity of anaemia across rural and underprivileged communities.
The study delves into the socio-economic factors fueling anaemia. Children from households with low and medium standards of living are more susceptible to anaemia. Despite popular belief, even children of literate mothers or those from wealthier backgrounds are not entirely immune. The survey highlights that more than half of the children whose mothers had 12 or more years of schooling still suffered from anaemia.
Multiple children in a family exacerbate the situation. As household demands grow—be it food, care, or domestic work—nutritional requirements often take a backseat.
The mother’s age at marriage also plays a pivotal role, with children of women married between 18-26 years facing greater risks.
Meghalaya’s unique socio-economic fabric intensifies the problem. A large rural population, combined with low awareness about nutritional deficiencies and limited healthcare access, leaves children vulnerable. Additionally, the absence of critical screening mechanisms and preventive strategies compounds the issue.
Childhood anaemia is not just an Indian issue; it’s a global health concern. For instance, 49% of children aged 6-11 months in New Zealand suffer from anaemia, while the figure is a staggering 83% in Mali, Africa. These numbers highlight the universal nature of this crisis, albeit with varying degrees of severity and causative factors.
The study calls for sustainable, long-term strategies to combat childhood anaemia. It recommends regular screening of children to detect and prevent anaemia early. Collaboration among government bodies, non-governmental organizations, and local communities is deemed crucial. Moreover, enhancing awareness about the importance of nutrition, hygiene, and healthcare is paramount.
Short-term measures, such as iron supplementation and targeted healthcare interventions, can provide relief. However, the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses socio-economic disparities, dietary deficiencies, and healthcare accessibility cannot be overstated.

spot_imgspot_img

Related articles

LoP Gandhi to address key issues concerning farmers, tribals, women during Odisha visit

Bhubaneswar, July 9: Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee President, Bhakta Charan Das, on Wednesday announced that Congress MP and...

Ravi Shankar Prasad slams opposition over Bihar bandh, alleges pressure tactics on judiciary

New Delhi, July 9: Senior BJP MP and former Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad launched a scathing attack...

Punjab Police foil terror plot backed by Pakistan’s ISI

Chandigarh, July 9: Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said here on Wednesday that the state...

16th Agriculture leadership conclave: Argentina reaffirms commitment to agri-cooperation with India

New Delhi, July 9: At the two-day Agriculture Leadership Conclave 2025, Argentina underlined the importance of its deepening...