Description
Welcome to today’s webinar on Anemia in Women, a crucial yet often overlooked public health concern. Anemia affects a significant proportion of women across all age groups, impacting their energy levels, productivity, and overall well-being. From nutritional deficiencies and menstrual blood loss to pregnancy-related causes, the risk factors are varied and complex. This session aims to shed light on early diagnosis, prevention strategies, and effective management approaches tailored for women. We look forward to an engaging discussion that will help enhance awareness and improve outcomes in female health.
Summary Listen
- Anemia, a significant medical issue affecting women, is characterized by insufficient hemoglobin or red blood cells, hindering oxygen delivery to the body's tissues. This condition can be acute, stemming from sudden blood loss, or chronic, resulting from heavy menstruation or nutritional deficiencies.
- Various types of anemia exist, categorized by their underlying causes. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid deficiencies, are common culprits. Genetic factors, chronic diseases, and marrow dysfunction can also contribute to anemia.
- Inadequate iron intake due to social and economic factors, inability to absorb iron, pregnancy, endometriosis, and internal bleeding are prevalent causes of anemia in women. Iron deficiency, especially during menstruation and pregnancy, significantly increases the risk.
- Symptoms of iron deficiency anemia include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, pale skin, headaches, irritability, sleep disturbances, and unusual cravings (pica). Prolonged and severe anemia can also lead to excessive hair fall and cardiac issues.
- Diagnosis involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and lab tests. Key tests include a complete blood count, peripheral smear, serum iron study, total iron binding capacity, and serum ferritin levels. Further investigations may be necessary to rule out underlying conditions.
- Treatment for iron deficiency anemia primarily involves iron supplementation, either orally or intravenously. Oral iron is the first-line treatment, while IV iron is reserved for severe cases or intolerance. Addressing the root cause of the deficiency, such as gynecological issues or malabsorption, is crucial.
- National efforts, such as Anemia Mukt Bharat, aim to reduce anemia prevalence in children, adolescents, and women. These programs focus on iron and folic acid supplementation, deworming, fortified nutrition, and awareness campaigns.
- Vitamin B12 and folic acid deficiencies are also causes of anemia in women. B12 deficiency can result from vegetarian/vegan diets, autoimmune conditions, or gastrointestinal issues. Treatment involves B12 supplements through injections, oral medications, or nasal sprays. Folic acid deficiency during pregnancy can cause neural tube defects in the fetus, necessitating supplementation.
- Clinicians should avoid trivializing menstrual complaints and screen young girls for anemia. Dietary history, cultural and socio-economic factors, and body image issues should be considered. Counseling families about adequate spacing of pregnancies and promoting regular screening and early intervention are essential for managing anemia in women.
Sample Certificate
About the Speakers
Dr. Priyanka Nadkarni
Consultant Internal Medicine, Fortis Healthcare, Mumbai
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