1 Out Of 3 Children Are At Risk Of Iron Deficiency Anaemia. Here's How To Get A Free Test
There are 40 Dugro Generasi Kuat Zat Besi roadshows set to happen nationwide from August onwards.
By Marion Fernando — 07 Aug 2023, 12:14 PM
Iron is essential to your child's growth, and when they don't have enough iron, it can affect their development and lead to anaemia
In fact, iron deficiency is the leading cause of anaemia in children. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the prevalence of IRON DEFICIENCY ANAEMIA (IDA) is a major health concern among children under the age of five.
In Malaysia, the Ministry of Health reported that 46.5% of children under the age of 59 months are anaemic, through the National Health and Morbidity Survey for Maternal and Child Health 2022.
With the intention of improving understanding of IDA in young children, Danone conducted its first large-scale multi-site clinical study — called Iron Strong — in collaboration with Clinical Investigation Centre, University Malaya Medical Centre.
As part of its One Health public health campaign, Danone will be conducting a series of roadshows across the country to promote FREE anaemia screening and iron intake
(From L to R) ISEA Health Innovation, Medical Affairs & Market Access Director at Danone Angie Low; Senior Consultant Paediatric Endocrinologist and Deputy Dean Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya Professor Dr Muhammad Yazid Jalaludin; Consultant Family Medicine Specialist and Head of Clinic at Klinik Kesihatan Simpang Kuala, Alor Setar, Dr. Sri Wahyu Taher; and Nutrition Programme, USM School of Health Sciences Professor Dr. Hamid Jan Bin Jan Mohamed, discussing the Iron Strong Study findings during a recent panel session.
Image via Danone (Provided to SAYS)IDA can significantly affect a child's physical and cognitive development, as well as their body's immune system. Data from the Iron Strong clinical study is expected to not only help define appropriate actions to address IDA on a local front, but also provide practical solutions to tackle iron deficiency.
Senior Consultant Paediatric Endocrinologist and Deputy Dean Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya Professor Dr Muhammad Yazid Jalaludin, who led the study as Principal Investigator, said, "Malnutrition significantly contributes to iron deficiency anaemia, culminating in irreversible growth complications among Malaysian children.
"The implications extend beyond physical growth, affecting cognitive development and immune function. By identifying and addressing risk factors early through routine screenings, we can significantly mitigate the impact of nutrient deficiencies on children."
Insights from the study revealed that one in three children are at risk of anaemia, while children who are underweight are more likely to be found anaemic
The Iron Strong Study involved 1,201 out-patient Malaysian young children across randomly selected government health clinics in the country.
The study also found that young children have a higher risk of experiencing iron deficiency compared to older children. Both children in urban and rural areas are at risk of IDA.
Don't wait till your child has symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA). You can get a free IDA screening for your child at 40 roadshows nationwide.
IDA symptoms include fatigue, lack of focus, pale skin, slowed growth and development, poor appetite, and more.
Besides learning facts about IDA, parents may be glad to know they will be able to sign their children up for a pain-free IDA screening test, no needles necessary!
The non-invasive screening tool is considered an effective way to identify children at risk of anaemia. It essentially eliminates the need for traditional, invasive blood-draw methods.
Providing free, non-invasive anaemia screening and consultation, here are the details for Dugro's Generasi Kuat Zat Besi roadshow:
Click here for more info.
If you're looking to further strengthen your child's 360 development, Dugro's NextGen NUTRI with Iron Active provides 100% iron in three glasses along with other key nutrients for growth
Dugro is a growing-up milk with Iron Active (Zat Besi Aktif) — a unique combination of iron and vitamin C in a ratio of 1:3 that supports two times the absorption of nutrients for growth and development.
A recommended three glasses of Dugro a day provides 100% iron requirements, and high levels of other essential nutrients such as DHA and calcium, as well as 21 key vitamins and minerals*.
During the roadshows, mums and dads can get their hands on free samples, including a free water tumbler when you buy Dugro products worth RM50 in a single receipt. :)
So, mark your calendars and make your way to any of Dugro Generasi Kuat Zat Besi roadshows for FREE IDA screening, and a chance to learn more about preventing IDA through adequate iron intake!
Visit Dumex Dugro's website for more information about IDA and the Dugro Roadshow.
The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published in this article is not intended to replace, supplant or augment a consultation with a health professional regarding the reader’s own medical care.
