A Life Course Approach to the Prevention of Iron Deficiency Anemia in Indonesia
Ali Sungkar, Saptawati Bardosono, Rima Irwinda, Nurul Ratna Mutu Manikam, Rini Sekartini, Bernie Endyarni Medise, Sri Sudaryati Nasar, Siti Helmyati, Anna Surti Ariani, Juntika Nurihsan, Emi Nurjasmi, Levina Chandra Khoe, Charisma Dilantika, Ray Wagiu Basrowi, Yvan Vandenplas
Abstract
Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) has a long-term impact on each life stage and remains worldwide a major public health problem. Eleven experts were invited to participate in a virtual meeting to discuss the present situation and the available intervention to prevent iron deficiency anemia in Indonesia. The experts consisted of obstetric gynecologists, pediatricians, nutritionists, midwives, a clinical psychologist, and an education expert. Existing interventions focus attention on preconception and early childhood stages. Considering the inter-generational effects of IDA, we call attention to expanding strategies to all life stages through integrating political, educational, and nutritional interventions. The experts agreed that health education and nutritional intervention should be started since adolescence. Further research to explore the effectiveness of these interventions would be important for many regions in the world. The outcome of this Indonesian consensus is applicable worldwide.