Preventing and controlling iron deficiency anaemia through primary health care: A guide for health administrators and programme managers

Many millions of people worldwide have iron deficiency anemia. Pregnant women and young children comprise the greatest proportion of those afflicted with iron deficiency anemia (51% and 43% respectively) especially those in developing countries. Supplementing their diet with medicinal iron prevents iron deficiency anemia. As cost benefit studies demonstrate iron supplementation yields an immediate increase in physical work output and lower morbidity and mortality. A 10% and 25% increase in hemoglobin levels brought about by iron supplementation yield annual per capita benefits of respectively $7 and $18 in Indonesia and $57 and $142 in Mexico (1980 data). This World Health Organization publication provides information on iron deficiency anemia that allows program managers to develop a sound strategy for the control of iron deficiency anemia. It examines the mechanism by which the body absorbs iron and the daily iron requirements of different population groups. The book also explains how relatively simple dietary changes could prevent anemia. Improved feeding of ill children distribution of iron tablets and control of microbial infections are other valuable interventions. The book describes current laboratory methods for detecting anemia and iron deficiency. It emphasizes that pregnant women almost always require medicinal iron so routine laboratory confirmation of iron deficiency anemia is unwarranted for them. The last section of the book presents guidelines on designing a proper control strategy and assigning responsibility for the various tasks involved.