Srinagar, Jul 01 : Anemia, a global health concern, is not confined to women, but can affect anyone irrespective of age and gender, the medicos warned on Monday.
Doctors said that persons having symptoms must consult a doctor that may lead to early detection and thereby better health outcomes.
Dr Manzoor Ahmad, a General Physician at DHSK told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that it’s a misconception that only women are at risk of Anemia but the truth is it can affect anyone, regardless of gender or age, making it a critical health issue for the entire population.
“Anemia means lack of Red Blood Cells (RBC) to carry adequate oxygen to the body’s tissues, is often associated with women, particularly due to menstruation and pregnancy,” he said, adding that iron deficiency Anemia is most common type, often resulting from blood loss, poor diet, or an inability to absorb enough iron.
He said that vitamin deficiency Anemia is caused by a lack of vitamin B12 or folate, often due to dietary deficiencies or absorption problems.
The medico said that there can be anemia due to chronic disease, when the body stops producing enough new blood cells, when RBCs are destroyed faster than the body can replace them and sickle cell Anemia a disorder that can cause blockages in blood flow.
Dr Mushtaq Ahmad, another medico at DHSK said that Anemia often goes undiagnosed because its symptoms can be mild and nonspecific but the common signs include fatigue and weakness, Pale or yellowish skin, irregular heartbeats, Shortness of breath, Dizziness or light-headedness, Chest pain and cold hands and feet.
“Severe anemia can lead to significant health problems, including heart complications and pregnancy issues. In children, it can cause developmental delays and cognitive impairments,” he said
Doctors said that regular health checkups are crucial for early detection along with the management of anemia.
They said that a simple blood test can diagnose Anemia and the type and cause of Anemia detection is a must for better treatment. They said that the prevention and management of this disease is eating a balanced diet, taking supplements, regular screening and treatment of underlying problems.
They added that adopting preventive measures and seeking timely medical advice, everyone can reduce their risk and manage this common condition more effectively—(KNO)
