A new report from the World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed a staggering global health crisis, with anemia affecting millions of women and children worldwide. The report highlights that anemia, a condition often caused by iron deficiency, is a major public health concern, disproportionately impacting pregnant and postpartum women, menstruating adolescent girls, and young children.
According to WHO estimates, nearly 37% of pregnant women and 30% of women aged 15–49 suffer from anemia, with the highest burden in low- and lower-middle-income countries. Women living in rural areas, from poorer households, or with limited access to education are most vulnerable. The condition not only weakens immunity and productivity but also poses serious risks during pregnancy, leading to complications such as preterm birth and maternal mortality.
In 2019 alone, anemia resulted in the loss of 50 million years of healthy life due to disability, with iron deficiency, thalassemia, sickle cell trait, and malaria identified as leading causes. WHO warns that without urgent interventions, millions of women will continue to suffer from this preventable and treatable condition.
Health experts emphasize the need for improved nutrition, iron supplementation programs, and better maternal healthcare access to combat anemia, particularly in vulnerable female populations. Addressing this crisis, they argue, is not just a health priority but a fundamental step towards gender equality and global development.
