Anemia is a serious public health concern in India, with alarming statistics revealing its widespread impact. According to the National Family Health Survey 5 (2019-21), the prevalence of anemia is 25.0% among men (ages 15-49), while the rates soar to 57.0% in women of the same age group.
The situation is particularly dire among adolescents, with 31.1% of boys (ages 15-19) and a staggering 59.1% of girls affected. Pregnant women are also heavily impacted, with 52.2% experiencing anemia, and the rate is even higher among children aged 6 to 59 months, reaching 67.1%.
In light of these alarming figures, EROHAN Foundation as a leading health NGO in India is dedicated to addressing this critical issue. Our mission focuses on uplifting vulnerable communities, especially in remote rural and tribal areas, by focusing on anemia prevention and treatment. A key part of our NGO focusing on anemia nutrition involves combating anemia through improved nutrition and health initiatives, ensuring a better quality of life for all those we serve.
Understanding Anemia
EROHAN Foundation, an NGO focusing on Anemia Nutrition, addresses the root causes of anemia. Anemia occurs when the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to its tissues. Fatigue, weakness, and a range of other health concerns are common symptoms of anemia. Iron-deficiency anemia, caused primarily by a lack of iron in the diet, is the most widespread type. This is particularly prevalent in communities with limited access to nutritious foods.
Our Approach to Tackling Anemia
To combat anemia effectively, EROHAN Foundation focuses on a holistic approach that combines nutrition education, community engagement, and healthcare interventions. Here’s how we do it:
1. Nutrition Education and Awareness
We believe that awareness is the first step toward making a difference. Our team conducts campaigns in villages to educate communities about the importance of balanced nutrition and the role of iron-rich foods in preventing anemia. We emphasize:
- Diet Diversity: We encourage families to include a variety of foods in their diets, such as leafy greens, legumes, and fortified cereals, which are rich in iron and other essential nutrients.
- Local Resources: Our initiatives focus on using locally available foods to make nutritious meals, promoting sustainable practices and reducing dependency on external sources.
2. Prophylactic Iron and Folic Acid Supplementation
To further support our communities, we implement a prophylactic iron and folic acid supplementation program targeting specific age groups. This includes:
- Children: We provide supplements to young children, ensuring they receive essential nutrients for proper growth and development.
- Pregnant and Lactating Women: Special attention is given to pregnant women and new mothers, as they are at a higher risk of anemia. We ensure they receive adequate supplementation to support their health and that of their babies.
3. Community Mobilisation and Behaviour Change Communication (BCC)
We actively engage with community members through Behavior Change Communication (BCC) strategies. Our frontline workers, including ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) workers, play a crucial role in this process by:
- Promoting healthy eating habits and the importance of iron intake.
- Encouraging the practice of delayed cord clamping during childbirth to improve newborn health outcomes.
4. Healthcare Interventions
In collaboration with local health authorities, we focus on providing healthcare interventions that address anemia at its roots. This includes:
- Testing and Treatment: We facilitate testing for anemia in community health camps, providing immediate treatment options and referrals to local healthcare facilities for further care.
- Addressing Non-Nutritional Causes: Our team also works on identifying and addressing non-nutritional factors that contribute to anemia, such as malaria and other diseases that can exacerbate the condition.
5. Empowering Healthcare Professionals
We realize that the success of any health effort depends on trained healthcare professionals, so we ensure they receive the training and resources to:
Frontline Workers: We ensure that they are well-equipped with knowledge and tools to identify and manage cases of anemia in their communities.
Summary
EROHAN Foundation an NGO focusing on Anemia Nutrition, is commitment to tackling anemia through nutrition is part of a broader effort to enhance health outcomes for women and children in underserved communities. By focusing on education, supplementation, healthcare interventions, and community engagement, we strive to create a lasting impact. Together, we can build a healthier future, free from the burden of anemia, and ensure that every individual has access to the nutritious food they need for good health.
Our work is guided by the belief that with the right support and resources, we can uplift the underprivileged groups and foster child development for a brighter tomorrow. Through our continued efforts, we aim to make a significant difference in the lives of those we serve.
