Anaemia: Causes, Symptoms, and Global Prevalence – A Holistic Guide to Prevention and Treatment

 

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Anaemia is the most common nutrition disorder globally, with over half a billion women and hundreds of millions of children affected by it. Since the condition is identified by a reduction in the quantity of red blood cells or the concentration of haemoglobin, it could have serious health consequences—particularly for women of reproductive age, young children, and expectant women.

In this blog, we cover the aetiology, symptoms, risk factors, and evidence-based prevention and treatment for anaemia.

What Is Anaemia?

Anaemia occurs when there's an insufficiency of haemoglobin—a protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen—to meet the body's needs. As a result, the tissues and organs receive less oxygen, which can impact overall function and growth.

Most Affected Groups:

• Women aged 15–49
• Children below 5 years, especially below 2
• Pregnant and postpartum women
• Adolescent girls with heavy menstruation

The Global Burden of Anaemia

Anaemia remains a major global health issue, especially in low- and middle-income countries.

In 2019, over 539 million non-pregnant women and 32 million pregnant women were anaemic.

• South-East Asia and Africa bear the biggest burden:
• Africa: 106 million women and 103 million children
• South-East Asia: 244 million women and 83 million children

Common Signs and Symptoms of Anaemia

The symptoms of anaemia are insidious in the beginning but can become more severe over time. If not treated, it can impair mental and physical development in children and cause more complications during pregnancy.

Common Symptoms:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Cold hands and feet
• Shortness of breath
• Headaches

Severe Symptoms:

• Pale skin and mucous membranes
• Rapid heartbeat and breathing
• Bruising easily
• Dizziness on standing

What Causes Anaemia?

Anaemia is not a disease itself, but rather a symptom of underlying conditions.

Principal Causes:

1. Iron Deficiency: Most common, due to dietary lack or impaired absorption.

2. Vitamin Deficiencies: Lack of vitamin A, folate, B12, or riboflavin.

3. Infections: Malaria, TB, HIV, and parasitic worms.

4. Chronic Diseases: Kidney disease, inflammation, and cancer.

5. Menstrual and Pregnancy-related Blood Loss: Heavy menstruation and postpartum haemorrhage.

6. Genetic Blood Disorders: Examples include sickle cell disease and thalassemia.

How Is Anaemia Diagnosed?

Anaemia is diagnosed by checking haemoglobin levels with a blood test. Normal levels vary by age, sex, and pregnancy.

Anaemia Prevention and Treatment Strategies

Anaemia is both preventable and treatable, especially when detected early. Treatment depends on the cause.

Nutritional Interventions:

• Eat foods high in iron: red meat, poultry, fish, legumes, dark green leafy vegetables
• Eat foods high in vitamin C: citrus fruits, bell peppers, strawberries – to enhance iron absorption
• Limit foods that block iron absorption: tea, coffee, bran, and foods high in calcium

Take iron or multivitamin supplements (as advised)

Public Health Interventions:

• Prevent and treat malaria and parasitic diseases
• Promote birth spacing and contraceptive use
• Immunize against common infections
• Delay umbilical cord clamping for at least one minute after birth
• Screen and treat genetic blood disorders

Daily Self-Care Tips to Manage Anaemia

• Drink plenty of fluids and take balanced diets daily
• Wash your hands frequently to prevent infections
• Use clean toilets to prevent parasitic infections
• Consult a doctor if you have heavy menstrual bleeding
• Space pregnancies by at least 2 years
• Follow medical advice if you live in areas where malaria is common

The Developmental and Economic Consequence of Anaemia

Anaemia not only influences personal health but also retards national development. In children, anaemia is associated with poor school performance and growth retardation. In adults, it decreases productivity and earning capacity.

Economic Insight: For every $1 spent on anaemia reduction in women, there is a potential $12 in economic return.

WHO's Global Reaction to Anaemia

Anaemia reduction is part of the Global Nutrition Targets that have been adopted by the World Health Assembly. The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF are leading the way through:

• A comprehensive action framework
• The establishment of the Anaemia Action Alliance
• Promotion of multisectoral action in health, nutrition, and education

Final Thoughts: Take Action to Beat Anaemia

Anaemia is a serious yet preventable public health disorder. With good diet, public policy, and public education, millions of lives—especially women's and children's—can be greatly improved.

Take action. Eat right. Get the test. And see your doctor if you suspect you have anaemia.

References:

World Health Organization

Global Health Metrics, The Lancet, 2019

Walters et al., World Bank Investment Framework for Anaemia, 2017