Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 28 May 2025
A T3 (Test, Treat, and Talk) camp aimed at combating anaemia was recently organized at the Prothrapur Community Hall by the Directorate of Health Services, Sri Vijaya Puram, in collaboration with the District Health Society, South Andaman, and the Urban Tribal Health Mission (UTHM).
The camp was conducted under the aegis of Anaemia Mukt Bharat, a flagship programme of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. Launched in 2018, the initiative adopts a life-cycle approach to reduce anaemia among vulnerable population groups, including children, adolescents, women of reproductive age, and pregnant and lactating mothers.
The event was inaugurated by Dr. Suja Antony, Director of Health Services. Also present on the occasion were Dr. H. M. Siddaraju, Joint Secretary (RCH-II); Ms. D. Radhika, Vice Chairperson of SVPMC; Dr. Shreelekha, ENT Specialist; and Mr. B. Nagendran, District Programme Manager.
In her address, Dr. Suja Antony highlighted the gravity of anaemia as a public health challenge, noting that over 50% of adolescent girls and women of reproductive age in India are affected. “The long-term goal of Anaemia Mukt Bharat is to break the intergenerational cycle of anaemia,” she said.
Dr. H. M. Siddaraju emphasized the role of dietary habits in preventing iron deficiency anaemia, stating, “It is one of the most common yet preventable conditions, and can be effectively managed with simple dietary modifications.”
Ms. D. Radhika urged the public to make use of such health camps for early detection and timely intervention.
During the camp, 45 individuals were screened. Among them, 11 were found to be severely anaemic and 17 moderately anaemic. The affected individuals were immediately provided with Iron Folic Acid (IFA) tablets and Albendazole tablets as part of the treatment protocol.
The camp was part of ongoing efforts to raise awareness and deliver doorstep health services to combat anaemia in the community.