July 10, 2025 — South Asia is the “global epicentre” of anaemia among adolescent girls and women, with over 259 million affected, according to a joint warning from UNICEF, WHO, and SAARC. The condition, which limits the body’s ability to carry oxygen, leads to chronic fatigue, poor maternal health, and reduced economic participation.

“This is a clarion call for action,” said UNICEF’s Regional Director, Sanjay Wijesekera, emphasizing that the crisis signals broader systemic failures.

Anaemia contributes to 40% of low birth weight cases worldwide and costs South Asia an estimated $32.5 billionannually. Yet, it remains both preventable and treatable through iron supplementation, better diets, sanitation, and improved maternal care.

Progress is visible. Nepal has cut anaemia rates among women by 7% since 2016, with community health workers playing a key role. India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Bhutan are also scaling up integrated health and nutrition initiatives.

“Ending anaemia is not just a health priority – it’s an investment in our future,” said Md. Golam Sarwar, SAARC Secretary General. Experts urge multi-sector collaboration, stronger health systems, and community-led action to reverse the crisis and empower millions of women and girls.