Chennai: Anaemia or iron deficiency among children and infants in the city is an ongoing concern. As matter of fact, the first year of life and adolescence especially increases the chances of Anaemia. A data analysis study conducted by Lister Metropolis, a pathological lab in the city suggests that more than 37.46 per cent children in Chennai within the up to the age of 20 are found to be anaemic in nature.
It is important to consume foods rich in Iron. Vitamin C helps in the absorption of Iron and should always be included in the diet, says Dr Anita Suryanarayanan, vice president, Lister Metropolis. "Another important thing to keep in mind is that tea and coffee interfere with the absorption of Iron and hence it is important to time your supplements well. Regular monitoring of haemoglobin levels will assure you that your child does not have anaemia."
The study found that the most common cause of Anaemia is the Iron Deficiency Anemia. At times, there could be other reasons for a child to suffer from Anemia and some of the conditions are inherited.
Describing the symptoms, Dr Anita Suryanarayanan pinpoints lethargy, unexplained fatigue, pale skin and pale eyes. A more severe form of anaemia is characterized by a behaviour called ‘pica’ where the child builds a tendency to eat dirt, clay and other unusual substances.
