

Anemia Prevention and Treatment
Sustainable measures create healthy outcomes

The World Health Organization estimates that nearly 2
billion people are anemic – 800 million of whom are women and children under
the age of 5 – and it is estimated that half are due to iron deficiency. Anemia
in pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, and
low-birth-weight thus increasing risks of infant mortality. In newborns and
infants this leads to risks of stunting, blindness, decreased cognitive performance, spinal and
brain defects. And in children iron deficiency anemia ranges from inhibiting
ones’ ability to learn to an increased risk for heart problems and stroke
(Simon, 2013).
But thanks to your support, HBI is preventing and treating iron deficiency
anemia, stunting its ability to further compromise the wellbeing of our mothers
and children. And here’s how.
Treating anemia is
pretty straightforward. It does, however, require a holistic approach that
focuses on prevention, treatment, and collaboration – which is where
HBI steps in.
Our model is a collaborative approach that incorporates
best practices established through the Peruvian Ministry of Health and global
leaders in anemia detection (Entia) and treatment (Lucky Iron Fish). Project
implementation is facilitated at the local level, enrolling 500 families, through
the Peruvian Ministry of Health in the District of Cayma, Father Alex Busuttil
and the Catholic Parish of St. Helen’s, and local health promoters. HBI convenes
key partners, fosters a collaborative process, and undertakes project
evaluation through a 12-month community-based research project. The ultimate
goal is creating a turn-key program that prevents and treats anemia in all families
living in poverty.