Socio-Economic Dimensions of Anaemia with Reference to Slum Dwelling Ganda lactating Women of Raipur, Chhattisgarh

Anaemia, a major public health problem, is one of the most frequently observed nutritional diseases in the world. It is especially prevalent among women in reproductive stage, particularly during pregnancy. Globally, 41.8% pregnant and 30.2% non-pregnant women are found anaemic (Agrawal et al, 2006). In India, anaemia is the second most common cause of maternal death, accounting for 20% of total maternal deaths. The present communication is based on the blood samples and the socio-economic data obtained through schedules from 160 lactating Ganda women (15–49 yrs age) spread over six slum settlements of Raipur City. Socio-economic variables considered in the study are education, family, parity, occupation and income. Majority (86.87%) of the surveyed lactating Ganda women have been found anaemic. Though 21.25% of the lactating Ganda women show mild degree of anaemia, occurrence of 52.50% moderate anaemia and 13.12% severe anaemia among them reflect the intensity of the problem. Significant association of anaemia with socio-economic variables like education, family, parity and income pattern stresses the role of these factors in management of anaemia. There is urgent need to make them aware of the need of iron rich food. Besides, specific need based developmental schemes are required to upgrade their socio-economic status to achieve desired results.