"Health is not just a matter of DNA, but of opportunity. For women, the right to health is the cornerstone of equality. Let's honour women's health as our collective treasure." - Audrey Hepburn
Another Women's Day rolls around, and we're still treating women's health issues like hidden chapters in an old textbook. Maybe this year, we can start reading them aloud, and not stop by simply yearning. The United Nations has chosen the topic of 'Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress' for 2024 to address economic disempowerment, while this year's campaign theme is 'Inspire Inclusion.' It stresses the importance of empowerment and diversity in every part of society.
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Empowering women's health is the foundation of a thriving society. Women's health in India encompasses a broad spectrum of concerns, ranging from reproductive health to mental well-being, influenced by factors such as socioeconomic status, education, and cultural practices.
As we celebrate Women's Day, it is crucial to address the health disparities that disproportionately affect women worldwide, particularly in the domain of blood-related disorders such as anaemia. Anaemia, a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or haemoglobin, significantly impacts women of reproductive age, pregnant women, and girls, contributing to morbidity, mortality, and impaired quality of life. Anaemia affects a considerable portion of the global population, with a marked prevalence among women. Studies reveal a staggering average prevalence rate of 46.5% among women of reproductive age in developing countries, ranging from 18.1% to 75% across different studies. This wide range underscores the variability of anaemia's impact, influenced by socio-economic, nutritional, and health factors. India, home to a diverse and vast population, shows a significant burden of anaemia among women. The prevalence of anaemia in Indian women is a public health concern, with certain states exhibiting higher rates than others. NFHS-5 reports that 53% of women aged 15-49 years are anaemic, highlighting the widespread issue of nutritional deficiency among women. In Assam, the National Family Health Survey-5, the prevalence of anaemia (<12.0 g/dl) among non-pregnant women aged 15-49 years was reported at 66.0% in urban areas and 66.4% in rural areas, marking a substantial increase from the 46.1% overall reported in NFHS-4.
Several determinants contribute to the high prevalence of anaemia among women, including nutritional deficiencies (particularly iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid), infectious diseases, genetic conditions, and chronic diseases. Among these, iron deficiency is the most common cause, exacerbated by menstrual blood loss, increased nutritional demands during pregnancy, and insufficient dietary intake.
To combat anaemia, a multi-faceted approach is necessary, focusing on improving dietary iron intake in Assam and India, iron-rich fruits include pomegranates and dates. Vegetables like spinach, beetroot, broccoli, drumstick leaves, banana flowers, amaranth leaves, and ragi are excellent sources of iron. Other foods rich in iron found in the region include lentils, chickpeas, tofu, and seeds like sesame and pumpkin. Fortification of foods, supplementation programs, and addressing underlying health conditions that contribute to anaemia. Additionally, enhancing women's access to healthcare services and education can empower them to seek treatment and preventative measures. As we reflect on Women's Day, it is imperative to recognize the significant health challenges faced by women, particularly anaemia. By focusing on research, public health initiatives, and policy changes, we can make strides towards reducing the burden of anaemia among women, thereby improving their health, well-being, and potential to thrive.
On Women's Day, let us pledge to prioritize, nurture, and celebrate the well-being of women across India and the world. This Women's Day, let's shift our dialogue from empowerment to action, focusing on the age-old health challenges faced by women. Elevate wellness over whimsy- Pick Power, Not Petals: This Women's Day, choose a banana flower over a bouquet. Nourish the iron queen within!
(The author is a Research Fellow. All views and opinions expressed in the article are the author’s own)
