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AnemiaPhone, a technology developed by Cornell University researchers to accurately, quickly, and cheaply, assess iron deficiency, has been transferred to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

What is AnemiaPhone?

It is a technology developed by researchers at Cornell University to quickly, accurately, and affordably assess iron deficiency, a leading cause of anemia.

It provides a solution for rapid screening and diagnosis of iron deficiency at the point of need.

It could transform anaemia detection, especially in underserved areas, by decentralizing healthcare and offering fast, accessible testing outside of traditional laboratories.

How does AnemiaPhone work?

It works by using a small finger stick to collect a drop of blood, which is placed on a test strip.

Similar to a COVID-19 home test, the test strip is analyzed by a portable reader. Within minutes, the device uploads the results to a clinical database via mobile phone, tablet, or computer.

Healthcare workers can then interpret the results and provide immediate guidance, triage, or referral.

Significance of AnemiaPhone for India

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a major health issue in India, affecting a large portion of the population. 

According to the National Family Health Survey 5 (2019–21), the prevalence of anaemia in India is 25% in men (15–49 years), 57% in women (15–49 years), 31.1% in adolescent boys (15–19 years), 59.1% in adolescent girls, 52.2% in pregnant women (15–49 years), and 67.1% in children (6–59 months). 

AnemiaPhone has the potential to address current challenges in screening and diagnosing iron deficiency anaemia within the Anaemia Mukt Bharat programme. The technology can be used in clinics, homes, or door-to-door healthcare surveys, making it accessible to remote and underserved populations.

About Anemia

Anaemia is defined as a condition where the body's red blood cells or haemoglobin (Hb) levels are lower than normal, which reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen to the body's tissues, resulting in symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.

Anaemia is most prevalent in women, especially those of reproductive age. It is also more prevalent in children, especially in infancy and early childhood. 

Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anaemia, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Other factors that can lead to anaemia include vitamin B12 deficiency and blood loss from the digestive tract.

Anemia Mukt Bharat (AMB) strategy

Anemia Mukt Bharat (AMB) is a strategy by the Government of India to reduce anaemia in children, women, and adolescents. The strategy was launched in 2018. 

What does the strategy include?

• Supportive nutrition: Children, pregnant women, lactating mothers, and adolescent girls receive supplementary nutrition to bridge the gap in their nutrient intake. 
• Fortified food: Fortified rice is supplied to beneficiaries through the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS) and other welfare schemes. 
• Awareness campaigns: Activities are conducted during Poshan Maahs and Poshan Pakhwadas to raise awareness about anaemia. 
• Delayed cord clamping: Health facilities are encouraged to delay cord clamping by three minutes after delivery. 
• Deworming: Children and adolescents are given deworming medication twice a year. 

Way Forward

AnemiaPhone is a smartphone app that can quickly and cheaply detect anaemia in India. It can help diagnose iron deficiency, which is a leading cause of anaemia. It can be a valuable tool for the healthcare system, especially for children and women. 

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Source: 

The Hindu