Chennai: Anaemia, one of the most common conditions observed in Indian women, is of various types. In a study conducted by Metropolis Healthcare, a global chain of pathology labs and diagnostic centres, it was found that one in every two women in the country is anemic and not all cases are due to iron deficiency, but the root cause could be severe and life threatening.
Stressing on the need to be more aware of disorders like Beta Thalassemia, a blood disorder, in which there is an increased destruction (hemolysis) of red blood cells, leading to severe anaemia - doctors urge all women to undergo thorough screening and seek medical help if their symptoms indicate anaemia.
From a data analysis of over 2,18,200 samples from across the country, the study found that over 50 per cent of the samples were anaemic. The condition is of various types.
“Iron-deficiency anaemia, the most common type, is easily treatable with changes in diet and iron supplements. Mild anaemia, which develops during pregnancy, is also considered normal. However, some types of anaemia may present lifelong health problems,” said Dr Rajesh Bendre, chief of laboratory services, Metropolis Healthcare Limited.
“While routine blood tests like complete blood count give an overall picture on the status of hemoglobin and red blood cell components, it is important to undergo a thorough diagnosis to find out the exact cause of anaemia,” he added.
Stating that cases of Thalassemia are now being seen even in Tamil Nadu, gynaecologist Dr Jaishree Gajaraj said, “We are now being alert about this genetic disorder, which is a rare cause of anemia. However, women should refrain from ignoring the symptoms.”
With the study having found that the most common cause of anaemia is iron deficiency, over 8.4 per cent samples pointed to Beta Thalassemia. “Due to the lack of awareness on the types of anaemia, all types get bundled under iron deficiency, but the root cause may be severe and life threatening. Beta Thalassemia is a serious genetic disorder and therefore, it is especially important to screen because it is hereditary and kids with Beta Thalassemia may fail to thrive and grow normally.
All women must undergo thorough screening and seek medical help if their symptoms indicate anaemia,” urged Dr Anita Suryanarayan, vice president, Operations (South India), Metropolis Healthcare Ltd.
