M’laya grapples with high rates of childhood anaemia

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.