The challenge

Iron deficiency is the most common and widespread nutritional
disorder in the world. As well as affecting a large number of children
and women in developing countries, it is the only nutrient deficiency
which is also significantly prevalent in industralized countries. The
numbers are staggering: 2 billion people – over 30% of the world’s
population – are anaemic, many due to iron deficiency, and in
resource-poor areas, this is frequently exacerbated by infectious
diseases. Malaria, HIV/AIDS, hookworm infestation, schistosomiasis, and
other infections such as tuberculosis are particularly important factors
contributing to the high prevalence of anaemia in some areas.
Iron deficiency affects more people than any other condition,
constituting a public health condition of epidemic proportions. More
subtle in its manifestations than, for example, protein-energy
malnutrition, iron deficiency exacts its heaviest overall toll in terms
of ill-health, premature death and lost earnings.
Iron deficiency and anaemia reduce the work capacity of individuals
and entire populations, bringing serious economic consequences and
obstacles to national development. Overall, it is the most vulnerable,
the poorest and the least educated who are disproportionately affected
by iron deficiency, and it is they who stand to gain the most by its
reduction.

The response: a three-pronged offensive

Invisible yet ubiquitous in many developing countries, the true toll
of iron deficiency and anaemia lies hidden in the statistics of overall
death rates, maternal haemorrhage, reduced school performance and
lowered productivity. Iron deficiency anaemia affects millions. The
health consequences are stealthy but devastating, invisibly eroding the
development potential of individuals, societies and national economies.
This need not be so. We not only know the causes; we also have solutions
that are both inexpensive and effective. Because of their close links,
iron deficiency and anaemia should be tackled simultaneously using a
multifactorial and multisectorial approach. It should also be tailored
to local conditions and take into account anaemia's specific aetiology
and the population groups affected.

It need not be so…

WHO has developed a comprehensive package of public health measures
addressing all aspects of iron deficiency and anaemia. This package is
being implemented in countries with high levels of iron deficiency and
anaemia, malaria, helminth infections and schistosomiasis.
Increase iron intake. Dietary diversification
including iron-rich foods and enhancement of iron absorption, food
fortification and iron supplementation.
Control infection. Immunization and control programmes for malaria, hookworm and schistosomiasis.
Improve nutritional status. Prevention and control of other nutritional deficiencies, such as vitamin B12, folate and vitamin A.

Eliminating iron deficiency anaemia demands truly courageous efforts from governments the world over and the international community. It is time to act.

Why stop iron deficiency anaemia?

The benefits are substantial. Timely treatment can restore personal
health and raise national productivity levels by as much as 20%. To
support countries in combating anaemia, WHO has developed guidelines on
prevention and control of iron deficiency and anaemia together with a
manual for assessing the magnitude of the problem and monitoring
interventions.
Because iron deficiency anaemia drains the life and vitality out of
development. We have both the means and potential to achieve widespread
improvement. We need to apply both energetically.

Article extracted from the World Health Organization website.