Addressing adolescent anaemia in vulnerable urban Indian communities: A qualitative exploration
Sep 23 2022 / Posted in


The study explores the issue of adolescent anaemia in vulnerable urban Indian communities, focusing on a community-based intervention aimed at improving nutrition and health outcomes. The research highlights the significant prevalence of anaemia among adolescents in India, particularly among girls, due to factors such as poor dietary habits, lack of awareness, and socio-cultural norms.
The intervention, implemented by the Society for Nutrition Education and Health Action (SNEHA), involved nutrition education sessions for adolescents and their families, which led to a reduction in junk food consumption and improved dietary practices. However, the study also found that treatment compliance for anaemia was influenced by parental support, awareness of the condition, and socio-economic factors, including gender dynamics within families.
The findings indicate that while nutrition education is essential for promoting healthier dietary choices, it must be complemented by addressing broader socio-economic and gender-related issues to ensure effective anaemia treatment compliance. The research emphasizes the importance of involving families in behaviour change and recognizing adolescents as active agents of change within their communities. It calls for a holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of various factors affecting anaemia, such as access to healthcare, sanitation, and the need for sustained advocacy against the consumption of junk food. Overall, the study underscores the necessity for multi-faceted interventions to tackle adolescent anaemia in urban slum settings effectively.
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