Anaemia has emerged as one of South Asia’s most pervasive and preventable health crises, quietly affecting millions of women and adolescent girls every single day. Despite significant medical progress, experts warn that this condition remains largely overlooked and continues to undermine entire communities’ well-being and economic stability.
Without immediate and coordinated action, anaemia could impact an additional 18 million women and girls by 2030, deepening existing inequalities and limiting the region’s potential.
The True Scale of Anaemia’s Impact
Currently, an estimated 259 million women and girls across South Asia are living with anaemia, a condition that drastically reduces the blood’s ability to carry oxygen. As a result, many experience chronic fatigue, weakness, and complications during pregnancy that often lead to severe health outcomes for both mothers and newborns. According to UNICEF and WHO, this crisis contributes to 40% of low birth weight cases, affecting children’s growth, cognitive development, and long-term educational attainment.
Why Anaemia Is a Development Challenge
Anaemia is not just a public health issue; it also imposes a staggering economic burden on South Asian countries, costing an estimated $32.5 billion every year.
When women and girls are unable to fully participate in education and work due to poor health, entire communities lose critical opportunities for progress and prosperity. Therefore, addressing anaemia is both a moral responsibility and a strategic investment in economic development and gender equality.
Proven Solutions and Community Success Stories
The good news is that anaemia is entirely preventable and treatable through simple, cost-effective interventions. For instance, iron and folic acid supplementation programs have already demonstrated remarkable success in high-burden states across India and Pakistan. In Bangladesh, integrated school-based initiatives are combining fortified meals with health education, reaching thousands of adolescents with lifesaving support.
These community-driven models prove that coordinated action across health, education, and agriculture sectors can rapidly improve outcomes.
Nepal’s Example: How Local Action Drives Change
Nepal stands out as a leader in reducing anaemia among women of reproductive age, achieving a 7% decline since 2016. Female community health volunteers have played a vital role by offering counselling, connecting families to nutrition resources, and encouraging regular check-ups.
Furthermore, innovative programs like Sutkeri Poshan Koseli provide nutritious foods and cash incentives, helping pregnant women access essential care and deliver healthier babies.
The Urgent Need for Unified Action
Experts agree that ending anaemia requires sustained political will, stronger health systems, and collaboration among governments, civil society, and communities. While countries like Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and the Maldives have launched ambitious national strategies, consistent funding and cross-sector partnerships are crucial for scaling up solutions. By prioritising anaemia prevention and treatment, South Asia can protect women’s health and empower the next generation to reach their full potential.
A Call to Action for Healthier Futures
Addressing anaemia in South Asia is not only about treating a medical condition—it is about affirming every woman’s right to health, dignity, and opportunity. With proven solutions already in place, there is no reason this crisis should continue unchecked. Governments, health workers, and communities must join forces to ensure that no girl or woman is left behind. Ending anaemia is a powerful step toward stronger societies and brighter futures.