104-107 432 Susheeka editorial August 9 1700.fm

Although anemia (low hemoglobin) can be due to many different causes such as parasites, urinary tract infection, and malaria, in fact poor nutrition and excessive ingestion of a toxic agent like fluoride (F–) are probably more frequent causes in many countries and are often overlooked and neglected. In the case of pregnancy, iron deficiency is very common, affecting millions of women worldwide. Heavy bleeding during menses results in greater nutritional demands to maintain hemoglobin, but even with a fairly good diet, some women are still anemic owing to deficiencies of vitamin B12, folic acid, and thyroid hormones. In India, anemia is widespread and is a major health problem that still plagues many communities with low hemoglobin (Hb) in adults (< 11.0 g/dL) and children (< 12.0 g/dL). Unfortunately, many who are afflicted with anemia do not show overt symptoms because the condition often begins with minor ailments that can lead to chronic debilitation. Despite being routinely detected in clinical conditions, low Hb is generally not considered important unless it involves recognition of a severe blood related disorder.