Iron deficiency anaemia high among Lankans - Health Ministry

by Carol Aloysius

Iron deficiency among Sri Lankans remains a significant problem despite the recent progress, as millions of people face the risk of developing anaemia and its attendant problems, Health Ministry officials said.

Deputy Director General, Health Services Dr R.R. Siyambalagoda told a media briefing to mark the National Nutrition Month in June, that this year’s theme “Iron rich food for health, strength and intelligence,” was to raise awareness on this health issue.

“Iron deficiency affects all segments of society and can lead to anaemia. Our main objective is to reduce the current levels of iron deficiency anaemia by 50 percent in every age group in the country by 2016, with improved knowledge on nutrition and changes with emphasis on the importance of iron rich diets”, he said.

Director, Nutrition Coordination Unit Dr. Shanthi Gunawardana said that a multiple micronutrient survey by the Medical Research Institute in 2012 revealed that the prevalence of anaemia among children aged 6-59 months was 15.1 percent. The worst affected were infants 6-11 months (34 percent).

Around 15 percent of pre-schoolers and 20 percent of schoolchildren were also found to be anaemic. A further study by the National Food Security Survey 2009 revealed that non pregnant 22 percent) and pregnant women between 15-49 (16 percent) were also anaemic.

Nutrition specialist UNICEF, Dr. Renuka Jayatissa said. “Iron deficiency anaemia is due to insufficient iron in diets, poor absorption of iron and loss of blood due to worm infestations or heavy menstrual bleeding. If not arrested in time, especially in young children, it can adversely affect their health, intelligence and physical activities”.

Health Ministry officials said that with UNICEF’s help action is being taken to improve the nutritional status of all high risk groups, from infants, pre-schoolers to school children and pregnant mothers.