The warning, jointly issued by UN agencies and the regional socio-economic block SAARC on Wednesday, emphasizes South Asia’s status as “global episent” of anemia among young girls and women.
It is estimated that 259 million are already suffering from the condition that deteriorates the body’s ability to bear oxygen, contribute to chronic fatigue, poor maternal results and reduced educational and economic participation.
“This is a clarity of clarity to action“Sanjay Wijesecera, Regional Director of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), who together with the UN World Health Organization (WHO) and SAARC prepared the analysis.
“When half of all young girls and women in South Asia are anemical, it’s not just a health question – it’s a signal that systems fail them.“
A far -reaching but preventing state
Anemia not only affects women and girls – it contributes to 40% of the world’s low birth weights and affects children’s growth and learning, especially in poor households.
The financial toll is staggering: Anemia costs South Asia estimated $ 32.5 billion annually, pervasive cycles of poverty and poor health.
Still, the condition can be prevented and treated. Distressed solutions include supplements for iron and folic acid, iron and vitamin-rich diets, better sanitation and infection control and stronger maternal healthcare.
Experts emphasize that collaboration with several sectors is critical of sustained progress.
A nurse talks to women about nutritious food in western India’s Sabarkantha district, many women and girls suffer from iron deficiency.
Integrated efforts crucial
In almost every country hangs progress in strengthening health systems, expanding nutrition programs and reaching young girls and women in marginalized communities.
Sri Lanka, where 18.5 percent of women of reproductive age are anemically, scales its national Nutrition Initiative focusing on the most affected districts.
India and Pakistan also see encouraging signs. In India, states with high Burden integrate iron supplements in school and maternal care programs. Pakistan has piloted community -based nutrition initiatives related to reproductive healthcare, enabling early detection and follow -up.
In Bangladesh, school-based health initiatives when young people with fortified meals and health education, coordinated across the Ministry of Health, Education and Agriculture.
Community -driven action works
The Maldives and Bhutan prioritize early prevention through childhood nutrition, food reinforcement and public consciousness campaigns. Although smaller in the population, both invest in anemia surveillance and interministrial cooperation.
Nepal stands out for its fair results: Since 2016, the country has cut anemia among women of reproductive age by 7 percent with a greater decrease in poor areas. Its female society’s health volunteers are the key that provides advice and references in remote regions and connects vulnerable households to public services.
Man Kumari Gurung, a nurse in Karnali Province, credit the results to a number of community-driven efforts.
“Pregnant women receive eggs, chicken and nutritious food through programs such as Sutkeri poshan koseli (Nutrition Gift to New Mothers), “she said.” Cash scholarships also help with transport to hospitals, support safer births and better nutrition. “
A nurse controls a pregnant woman’s weight and vital signs of a galigamuwa clinic, Sri Lanka.
Everyone has a role
Completion of anemia requires leadership and teamwork. Governments must lead, but society, health workers, schools and families all play a role.
Stronger health systems, better data and coordinated action across sectors can help girls and women reach their full potential – build healthier societies and stronger economies.
“Young people and mothers are at the heart of South Asia’s development goals. To ensure that they are healthy, nourished and authorized is not just a moral imperative, it is a strategic investment in the future of our society,“Said Md. Golam Sarwar, Secretary General of Saarc.
