Pakistan Faces $3 Billion Economic Loss Due to Anaemia Crisis
The economic impact of anaemia crisis in Pakistan is staggering, with a recent report revealing that the nation faces annual losses exceeding $3 billion due to this debilitating condition. The crisis predominantly affects millions of children, adolescent girls, and women, draining the economy through lost productivity and human capital.
The Extent of the Crisis:
Among children aged 6-59 months, 53% suffer from anaemia, leading to 2.8 million new cases reported annually. Pakistan ranks second in South Asia for child anaemia prevalence and 39th globally. For adolescent girls and women, 41.3% are affected by anaemia, with over 23.9 million new cases reported each year. Pakistan ranks fourth in South Asia and 35th worldwide for anaemia prevalence in this group. Causes and Consequences:
The report identifies various factors contributing to anaemia in Pakistan, including inadequate iron intake, recurrent infections, and poor maternal nutrition in children. Among adolescent girls and women, inadequate iron intake, frequent pregnancies, and chronic health conditions worsen the condition. Maternal anaemia not only impacts women’s health but also increases the risk of complications during pregnancy and adverse outcomes for newborns. Expert Insights:
Dr. Shabina Raza, country director for Nutrition International, underscored the long-term consequences of anaemia, emphasizing its effects on cognitive development, school achievement, and productivity in adulthood. The Ministry of National Health Services highlighted the economic burden of anaemia, stating that addressing this issue through nutrition-focused interventions is crucial for building a healthier and more productive society. Broader Implications:
While anaemia poses a significant health challenge, the broader cost of undernutrition in Pakistan is staggering. The report estimates an annual economic toll of $17 billion from undernutrition, representing 4.6% of the country’s Gross National Income (GNI). Stunting accounts for the largest share of this burden, with low birth weight contributing significantly to long-term challenges in human capital development and national growth.
The report identifies various factors contributing to anaemia in Pakistan, including inadequate iron intake, recurrent infections, and poor maternal nutrition in children. Among adolescent girls and women, inadequate iron intake, frequent pregnancies, and chronic health conditions worsen the condition. Maternal anaemia not only impacts women’s health but also increases the risk of complications during pregnancy and adverse outcomes for newborns.
Expert Insights:
Dr. Shabina Raza, country director for Nutrition International, underscored the long-term consequences of anaemia, emphasizing its effects on cognitive development, school achievement, and productivity in adulthood. The Ministry of National Health Services highlighted the economic burden of anaemia, stating that addressing this issue through nutrition-focused interventions is crucial for building a healthier and more productive society. Broader Implications:
While anaemia poses a significant health challenge, the broader cost of undernutrition in Pakistan is staggering. The report estimates an annual economic toll of $17 billion from undernutrition, representing 4.6% of the country’s Gross National Income (GNI). Stunting accounts for the largest share of this burden, with low birth weight contributing significantly to long-term challenges in human capital development and national growth.
While anaemia poses a significant health challenge, the broader cost of undernutrition in Pakistan is staggering. The report estimates an annual economic toll of $17 billion from undernutrition, representing 4.6% of the country’s Gross National Income (GNI). Stunting accounts for the largest share of this burden, with low birth weight contributing significantly to long-term challenges in human capital development and national growth.
As Pakistan grapples with the economic repercussions of the anaemia crisis, it is crucial to prioritize nutrition-focused interventions to address this pressing issue. The health and well-being of children, adolescent girls, and women are at stake, along with the nation’s economic growth. By taking proactive steps to combat anaemia, Pakistan can pave the way for a healthier, more prosperous future for all its citizens.
