A recent health screening conducted as part of the Anaemia Muktha Pousthika Karnataka (AMPK) programme has revealed alarming levels of anaemia among children in Dakshina Kannada district. The findings indicate that over 8,021 children are suffering from anaemia, with 268 cases identified as severe. It was observed that children studying in government schools exhibited higher rates of anaemia compared to their counterparts in private institutions. This disparity highlights a significant public health concern that needs urgent attention and intervention.
The screening process covered children from anganwadis up to pre-university (PU) level, with Mangaluru taluk recording the highest number of anaemic children in the district. According to data available, Mangaluru taluk reported 4,596 cases of anaemia, including a significant number of children suffering from severe anaemia that necessitated treatment with blood sucrose and blood transfusions. Furthermore, Mangaluru taluk also registered the highest number of severe anaemia cases, with 207 children affected. Bantwal and Sullia taluks followed closely, with Sullia reporting 42 children with severe anaemia. These numbers point to a worrying trend in the prevalence of anaemia across different regions within the district.
Venkatesha Subraya Patagara, the Deputy Director of Public Instruction (DDPI) of Dakshina Kannada, emphasized the role of schools in addressing this issue. He mentioned that government schools have collaborated closely with the health department to conduct student anaemia screenings. School authorities have been made aware of the severity of the situation, and teachers have received training on managing children diagnosed with severe anaemia, ensuring they receive timely intervention and care.
District Health Officer Dr Thimmaiah HR provided further insight into the classification of anaemia, categorized into three levels: mild, moderate, and severe. Out of the targeted 38,476 children, a total of 21,686 children were screened as part of the AMPK programme. The screening programme aimed to identify anaemia early, enabling timely treatment. According to Dr Thimmaiah, students who were found to be anaemic were prescribed iron supplements, with children in grade six and above being given blue tablets, while those below grade six received pink tablets to boost their iron levels.
The screening data has shown a clear trend of higher anaemia prevalence among government and aided school children compared to those in unaided private institutions. Specifically, 4,429 students from government schools have been identified as anaemic. This higher prevalence in government schools could be attributed to various socio-economic factors, including nutritional deficiencies and lack of awareness regarding a balanced diet. The health department has also noted that efforts to address anaemia among children before this comprehensive campaign were limited. Historically, iron supplementation programmes mainly targeted pregnant women, and no significant initiatives were focused on children.
Paediatricians warn that anaemia in children, if left untreated, can have severe repercussions for their overall well-being, including their academic performance and future productivity. Long-term anaemia can contribute to developmental delays, cognitive issues, and other health concerns. A lack of adequate iron levels affects a child’s physical health and impairs their ability to concentrate and learn effectively in school, leading to potential academic setbacks. Experts stress that addressing childhood anaemia is crucial for ensuring that children have the opportunity to grow, develop, and succeed both academically and personally.
The findings from Dakshina Kannada serve as a wake-up call for prioritising childhood nutrition and health. Government schools, health authorities, and local communities must work together to improve nutrition, conduct regular health screenings, and ensure that children receive adequate medical attention when required. Increasing awareness among parents, teachers, and caregivers about the importance of iron-rich diets, proper supplementation and regular monitoring could help mitigate the growing prevalence of anaemia among school-aged children. Only through a concerted effort can the district hope to improve the health and well-being of its youngest citizens and ensure that they have a healthy and productive future.