Year: 2025 | Month: July | Volume: 12 | Issue: 7 | Pages: 612-626
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijrr.20250765
Anemia Among Adolescent Girls: Prevalence, Underlying Causes, And Innovative Dietary Strategies for Sustainable Management
P. Venkateswari1, Dr. S. Parameshwari2
1Ph.D. Scholar Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Periyar University, Salem, Tamil Nadu -636011, India.
2Professor and Head, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Periyar University, Salem, Tamil Nadu -636011, India.
Corresponding Author: Dr. S. Parameshwari
ABSTRACT
Anemia is a global health concern affecting millions of people across diverse age groups, genders, and populations. This condition is characterized by a decreased quantity or quality of erythrocytes, resulting in less oxygen reaching tissues and organs. The pathogenesis of anemia is complex, involving nutritional deficiencies, chronic illnesses, genetic conditions, and blood loss. Among the most common causes are iron, vitamin B12, and folate deficiencies, particularly in developing countries. Chronic conditions such as chronic renal disease, inflammatory disorders, and malignancies further contribute to the pathogenesis of anemia. Anemia among adolescent girls is a critical public health issue, particularly in developing countries, where nutritional deficiencies, socioeconomic factors, and gender inequalities converge to exacerbate its prevalence. Adolescence is a period of rapid growth and physiological changes, resulting in significantly increased iron and micronutrient requirements. The primary causes of anemia in this demographic include iron deficiency resulting from poor dietary intake, menstrual blood loss, and inadequate iron absorption. Compounding these issues are factors such as early marriage, pregnancy, and limited access to healthcare, which amplify the risk. Anemia in adolescent girls has a detrimental impact on physical growth, cognitive development, academic performance, and immunity, ultimately diminishing their quality of life and long-term productivity. The consequences extend beyond individuals, impacting communities and national economies. Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach involving dietary diversification, iron supplementation, nutrition education, and awareness programs targeting adolescents and their families.
Keywords: Anemia, Adolescent, Chronic Disease, Therapeutic Modalities, Nutrition Education
[PDF Full Text]