In 3 months, 35% fall in anaemic schoolchildren across Faridabad

Sumedha Sharma

Gurugram, February 17

Lauding Faridabad district for a commendable reduction of around 35 per cent in the number of anaemic patients among school students, the state health authorities have asked other districts to follow its model.

Did not seek additional funds

From identifying target children to providing the best intervention, we have made a major mark. We took no additional funds but just undertook a dedicated plan. We are continuing our efforts and are sure that Faridabad will soon be anaemia-free. — Vikram Singh, Faridabad DC

In a letter to Faridabad DC Vikram Singh, Health Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) Dr G Anupama has appreciated the model adopted by the district, outlining the strategies, including health campaigns and regular health check-ups, adopted by the district administration.

“I am writing to all other DCs to emulate the Faridabad model. This collaborative approach will ensure the success of our collective efforts in achieving the goal of anaemia-mukt Haryana. Additionally, I recommend involving nutritionists to provide insights and guidance throughout the implementation process. Their expertise will be instrumental in further tailoring interventions,” the letter said.

The process of identification of anaemic school students was started three months ago. The campaign specifically targeted approximately 1.19 lakh government school children across the district.

The implementation process involved mapping out all government schools in the area. A total of 49.7 per cent school children were found to be suffering from anaemia in November 2023.

Of these, 24.3 per cent children had mild anaemia, 23.3 per cent had moderate anaemia and 2.1 per cent had severe anaemia. At 55.4 per cent, girls had a higher burden of anaemia compared to boys (42.6%).

Anaemia reporting cards recorded the haemoglobin levels of mild, moderate, and severely anaemic students at the time of screening. Severely anaemic students were referred to the sub-divisional and the Civil Hospital on designated days for comprehensive health check-ups and blood transfusions, if needed.

Dietary and supplement intervention was carried out, which showed commendable results. A total 35.6 per cent of the anaemic children become non-anaemic in the retesting sample. As much as 25.7% of anaemic girls become non-anaemic. Among anaemic boys in the retesting sample, 58.2% became free from the disease.

Talking to The Tribune, the DC said that what made project more special was that target was achieved using only the existing funds. “This was a joint endeavour of various departments collaborating scientifically and systematically. We are continuing the efforts and are sure we will make Faridabad anaemia-free soon,” the DC added.