Expert Consensus Publication, supported by P&G Health along with renowned experts to determine the impact of iron deficiency on health of peri-menopausal women in India

Results showed low awareness amongst clinicians to diagnose iron deficiency in peri-menopausal women

This National Nutrition Week, P&G Health shares findings of the expert consensus on ‘Iron deficiency in Peri-menopausal women (40 to 49 years) in India & it’s impact on their health. In an effort towards raising awareness around iron deficiency among women and its timely treatment, a consensus manuscript titled ‘Iron Deficiency in Peri-menopausal women: Clinical considerations from an Expert Consensus’ as an original research article has been accepted & published in the national journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology- “Indian Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research”. P&G Health is the proud corresponding author for this article.

Anemia is a common clinical condition with a disproportionate prevalence in women. Globally, it is estimated that 1 of every 4 individuals is anemic. Unfortunately, many clinicians are not aware of the prevalence of peri-menopausal age group, making it difficult to differentiate symptoms that are a result of Iron Deficiency Anemia or menopause. In fact, a study published in 2011 highlighted how Anemia among perimenopausal women has risen from 48% to 54%, within the last five years[i]. Studies analysing the impact of prevalence of iron deficiency in perimenopausal age group in India is sparse. A study conducted previously also showed how on an average, 78-88% peri-menopausal women across various states in India reported prevalence of iron deficiency anemia[ii]. Iron Deficiency and Iron Deficiency Anemia commonly occurs during and after pregnancy. However, various studies in the past have suggested how peri-menopausal women’s life are at an increased risk and their symptoms are often misinterpreted and overlooked due to lack of awareness. Perimenopause is the natural transition phase that every woman goes through before reaching menopause.

Millind Thatte, Managing Director, P&G Health India, said “P&G Health has been dedicated to awareness and education efforts on iron deficiency in our 50 years of presence in India. This National Nutrition Week, our aim is to increase conversation on the effects of Iron Deficiency in peri-menopausal women and call attention to the need for awareness and its possible solutions.”

Commenting on the Expert consensus publication, Dr. Sachin Pawar, Head – Medical Affairs at Procter & Gamble Health, said “Through this consensus publication, we have aimed to understand more about Iron Deficiency in Indian peri-menopausal women and through the exercise, raise awareness on the critical nature of this issue. More importantly, this publication aims to identify iron deficiency before occurrence of iron deficiency anemia, which is crucial to receiving timely treatment. We hope the consensus will help to standardize care, provide guidance on screening and treatment of iron deficiency anemia in perimenopausal women.”