TRENDS OF ANAEMIA PREVALENCE AMONG FEMALES IN HIMACHAL PRADESH AND INDIA (2015-2020) BASED ON NFHS SURVEYS
Rohit Nadda
District Program Officer, Chief Medical Office, Chamba, Himachal Pradesh, India
Abstract
Introduction: This article explores the trends in anaemia prevalence among females in Himachal Pradesh and India from 2015 to 2020 using National Family Health Survey (NFHS) data. Anaemia, characterized by reduced oxygen-carrying capacity due to low red blood cell or hemoglobin concentrations, particularly impacts vulnerable groups such as children, adolescent girls, and pregnant women. In 2019, the World Health Organization reported high anaemia rates, especially in developing countries like India. Anaemia not only affects women but also influences the health of their offspring, contributing to a vicious cycle of malnutrition. The study aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 2.2, emphasizing the need to address malnutrition and nutritional needs of adolescent, pregnant, and lactating women.
Material and Methods: The study utilizes a narrative description, comparing NFHS fact sheets from 2015 and 2020 for India and Himachal Pradesh. Data is presented using MS Excel, focusing on anaemia prevalence among adolescent girls, women of reproductive age, and pregnant women. District-level indicators in Himachal Pradesh are also examined to identify poorly performing districts.
Results: The analysis reveals that anaemia prevalence among non-pregnant women aged 15-49 increased in India but remained static in Himachal Pradesh. For pregnant women, India experienced a slight increase, while Himachal Pradesh witnessed an 8.2% decrease. Overall anaemia prevalence among women aged 15-49 increased in India and remained stable in Himachal Pradesh. District-wise data highlights Bilaspur as the worst-performing district in Himachal Pradesh.
Discussion: Comparing NFHS surveys indicates an increase in anaemia prevalence among non-pregnant women in India, contrasting with a stable situation in Himachal Pradesh. Prevalence among pregnant women increased in India but decreased in Himachal Pradesh. Although Himachal Pradesh outperformed India, but anaemia prevalence remains high (40%-60%).
Conclusion: Despite Himachal Pradesh comparatively better performance, both India and the state face challenges in reducing anaemia prevalence. The Anaemia Mukt Bharat strategy needs reinforcement, and new target-based interventions should be formulated. Strengthening the role of Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and adopting an integrated approach across departments are crucial to breaking the cycle of micronutrient deficiency and addressing anaemia among women.
Keywords: Anaemia, Women of reproductive age, India, Himachal Pradesh, Anaemia Mukt Bharat
Journal Name :
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EPRA International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (IJMR)
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Published on : 2024-02-02
Vol | : | 10 |
Issue | : | 1 |
Month | : | January |
Year | : | 2024 |