PREVALENCE OF ANAEMIA AMONG ADOLESCENT GIRLS: A COMMUNITY-BASED STUDY IN DELHI, INDIA

Abstract

Anaemia is a major public health issue in India. As per the National Health Family Survey (NFHS), the prevalence of anaemia has increased (55.8% to 59.1%) from NFHS-4 to NFHS-5. Anaemia among adolescent girls is higher (56% to 59%) than among boys (30% to 31%). According to NFHS 5, infant and child mortality rates have improved since the previous round; therefore, attention is required for adolescents because they are future mothers. It is relevant to bring out the prevalence of anaemia in adolescent girls to prevent maternal and child health in the future. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 adolescent girls in Munirika urban village, Delhi. 60.4% of anaemia cases were found among 250 study participants. The study revealed that anaemia was highly prevalent among adolescent girls. Anaemia was associated with less literate, lower starta, poor diet and underweight factors. Anaemia was found to be significantly more common in adolescent girls, and this incidence was higher in lower socio-economic strata, parents who were less educated, poor diet habits, and underweight causes. To have an early impact on reducing adolescents' anaemia, school teachers and Frontline Health Workers (FHWs) should educate and counsel them during home visits. There is a need for IFA supplementation and regular diet pattern awareness among adolescent girls. Interpersonal counseling needs to be strengthened at the community level through home visits and initiating awareness programs. The nutritional status of adolescent girls can be improved through counseling and health education. T3 camps should be held at the school level to raise awareness of anaemia among adolescent girls.