Page 14 - Cosmos Edition 3

Management of Anemia: Anemia is a multifactorial disorder that requires a multi-pronged
approach for its prevention and treatment. Adolescence is an opportune time for interven-
tions to address anemia.

Food based approaches is to increase iron intake through food fortification and dietary di-
versification are important sustainable strategies for preventing Anemia. It has been sug-
gested that adolescence may be an optimal time to deliver iron supplements to build iron
stores in the body. A trail of oral iron (60mg per day) is recommend in adolescent girls
with mild to moderate Anemia. Education regarding iron and vitamin C rich diet should be
given to adolescent girls to prevent iron deficiency. In severely anemic adolescent girls
blood transmission is recommended.

Conclusion: In view of the magnitude of this problem and the number risk factors in-
volved, urgent and systematic measures need to be taken to prevent and treat iron defi-
ciency Anemia in adolescence. Fortifying food with iron is the most effective measure for
combatting iron deficiency in adolescents.

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