In a proactive measure to tackle iron deficiency anemia, the Health & Family Welfare Department of Sikkim, under the Anemia Mukt Bharat Program, has started distributing Weekly Iron Folic Acid (WIFS Blue) tablets to school children aged 10 to 19 every Monday. This initiative aims to address the significant prevalence of anemia among adolescents in the state.
Understanding Anemia and Its Impact
Anemia, derived from the Greek words “an” meaning “without” and “haima” meaning “blood,” is a condition where the body lacks sufficient red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to its tissues. This can lead to various symptoms, including:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Pale or yellowish skin
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Headaches
- Altered taste and a sore mouth
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
For adolescents, anemia can severely impact cognitive functions, concentration, memory, and school performance. It can also weaken the immune system, making them more susceptible to infections, affect motor development, lower endurance, disrupt menstrual cycles in girls, and even increase child mortality rates.
The Need for Weekly Iron Folic Acid Blue Tablets
According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) conducted between 2019-2021, anemia affects 46.7% of adolescent girls and 17.5% of adolescent boys in Sikkim. Despite dietary modifications like including green leafy vegetables, meat, poultry, iron-fortified foods, and vitamin C to enhance iron absorption, these alone have not been sufficient to curb anemia.
Iron supplements, such as WIFS Blue tablets, are essential to ensure adolescents get the required iron levels to maintain good health. These supplements are particularly crucial in restoring and maintaining adequate iron levels in those who are deficient.
Weekly Iron Folic Acid: Role of Schools and Teachers
Every Monday, teachers across all schools in Sikkim distribute WIFS Blue tablets to students. This weekly routine helps to systematically address iron deficiency anemia and improve the overall health and academic performance of students. Teachers play a vital role in this initiative, ensuring that every adolescent receives their supplement regularly.
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The distribution of WIFS Blue tablets every Monday is a significant step towards eradicating anemia among adolescents in Sikkim. By combining iron supplementation with dietary modifications, the Health & Family Welfare Department aims to improve the health, academic performance, and overall well-being of the state’s young population. This initiative not only addresses a critical health issue but also empowers the future generation to lead healthier, more productive lives.