Anemia is a condition in which the size and number of an individual’s red blood cells fall below a certain level, impairing the ability of the blood to carry oxygen around the body. The World Health Organization (WHO) has set a target to halve rates of anemia among women of reproductive age by 2025, as in pregnant women, the condition carries a greater risk for mother and unborn baby.
Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia; the press release notes that it is responsible for approximately half of all cases. However, poor nutrition and poor diet means that iron consumption among pregnant women is lower than it should be; thus, WHO recommends iron supplementation for at-risk groups.
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“Precious Metal: The role of iron in the global fight against anaemia” focuses on WHO’s target, noting three groups of women who should consider iron supplementation. The resource points out other factors that can trigger anemia, and describes a successful intervention in India.The resource is availablehere.
Simon Pettman, Executive Director of IADSA, said: “Reducing anemia by 50% among women of child-bearing age is a global challenge with huge potential health benefits that could impact the lives of millions of women across the world. We trust that this Mind the Gap story will help raise awareness of the importance of the WHO target.”
