The Government of India in collaboration with United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) announced the launch of Poshan Pakhwada program on March 8, 202o. The announcement was made on the occasion of International Women's Day and the program will focus on creating awareness of anaemia, its prevention, hygiene and other health concerns among children and women.
In a bid to support this initiative by UNICEF, Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) buildings were lit up red on Sunday, March 8. Department of Women and Child Development (DWCD) and Department of Public Health have also joined hands for the same.
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According to reports, 58 per cent of children between the age of 6-59 months and 54 per cent of adolescent girls between the age of 15-19 are diagnosed with anaemia, which impairs cognitive and motor development among children and makes them more prone to illness. The condition, in adults, reduces work capacity and productivity.
If the anaemia is severe and untreated, it can weaken the immune system of the mother and make them more prone to infections which in turn will lead to them giving birth to weak infants. In order to control the same, Department of Public Health, Department of Women and Child Development with support from UNICEF have been creating awareness about 'Anemia Mukt Bharat'.
Symptoms of anaemia include fatigue, skin pallor, shortness of breath, light-headedness, dizziness or a fast heartbeat. Treatment includes oxygen, pain relievers and oral and intravenous (IV) fluids to reduce pain and prevent complications. Doctors might also recommend blood transfusions, folic acid supplements and antibiotics.
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