Health first: PGIMS-Rohtak to begin haemoglobin screening for women

In a focused health initiative aimed at supporting women’s wellbeing, the administration of Pt BD Sharma Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (PGIMS) in Rohtak has launched a haemoglobin screening campaign exclusively for its female doctors, nursing staff, other employees and girl students enrolled in MBBS and paramedical courses.

Medical Superintendent Dr Kundan Mittal said department-wise screening camps would be organised to ensure coverage without disrupting hospital operations. More than 3,000 female employees and students are expected to be tested under the drive.

Dr Mittal said the initiative is driven by concerns over the high prevalence of anaemia among Indian women. “Those responsible for treating patients must themselves be medically fit. Early detection of deficiencies such as low haemoglobin is key. In the first phase, we will screen all female employees. In the second phase, the drive will be extended to MBBS and paramedical students,” he said.

Dr Mittal noted that around 57 per cent of Indian women aged 15-49 are anaemic. The rate is 52 per cent among pregnant women, and more than half of adolescent girls between 15 and 19 years are also affected. “These figures highlight the urgent need for regular monitoring. Blood deficiency is often at the root of several health complications,” he said.