KARACHI:
Iron deficiency day is commemorated on the 26th of November every year to raise awareness about the serious health consequences of iron deficiency. Iron deficiency anaemia is caused by a lack of iron. Iron plays a crucial role in making haemoglobin, which enables red blood cells to carry oxygen. If an individual lacks iron, their body cannot produce enough of this substance. Resultantly, iron deficiency anaemia can leave people severely tired and short of breath.
Due to high poverty and poor healthcare support, most people lack sufficient diet and nutrition intake, which has amplified the prevalence of iron deficiency in the country. Research has confirmed that this anaemia is extremely common in Pakistan. The highest prevalence is between the ages of 12 to 15 years. Pregnant women also face a high risk of developing anaemia. If left untreated, iron deficiency anaemia can cause heart problems, delayed growth and development in infants and children as well as premature births and low birth weights in pregnant women.
Our health authorities must raise awareness about iron deficiency and its health implications. To improve iron intake, people should be encouraged to consume iron-rich foods such as seafood, beans, spinach, raisins, apricots, etc. However, people must avoid self-diagnosing and consuming large amounts of iron as excess iron accumulation can damage the liver and cause other health complications. Thus, doctors should inform people of the maximum iron intake and prescribe iron supplements accordingly.
Insiya Mustafa
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, November 26th, 2022.
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