Secretary: Dr. Arulkumaran Topics Covered: Iron deficiency anaemia – Clinical presentation, dietary management and prevention. The Department of Paediatrics at SMVMCH organized World Anaemia Awareness Day 2025 on February 13–14, 2025, with a series of programs aimed at spreading awareness about anaemia, its causes, prevention, and treatment. The theme for this year was “Raise Your Hands for Blood Health.”
Several activities, including exhibitions, health talks, poster competition and community outreach programs, were conducted over two days to educate the public and students
Event 1: Inauguration of Anaemia Awareness Exhibition
Date & Time: February 13, 2025, at 10:00 AM Inaugurated by: Dr.Kagne, Director, SMVMCH. Posters highlighting causes of anaemia, symptoms, dietary sources of iron, and treatment options were displayed. A special stall with iron-rich foods, including vegetables, fruits, and fortified cereals, was set up for public awareness.
Over 100 individuals, including women, children, and elderly citizens, attended the exhibition. The event aimed to educate people on improving blood health through nutrition and lifestyle changes.
Event 2: Health Awareness Talk for the Public
Date & Time: February 13, 2025, at 11:00 AM Speakers: Dr.Arulkumaran (Professor), Dr.Aravind Siva (Pg) Audience: General public, patients, and hospital visitors A public health talk was conducted to address anaemia prevalence, risk factors, and prevention strategies.
Pamphlets in the local language were distributed, covering:
This session helped raise awareness among the general public about how to recognize and manage anaemia effectively.
Event 3: Poster Presentation Competition for Postgraduates
Date & Time: February 13, 2025, at 11:30 AM Participants: Postgraduate students from the Paediatrics Department Theme: “Raise Your Hands for Blood Health” A poster presentation competition was conducted for postgraduate students. 21 participants presented research-based posters on various aspects of anaemia, including:
Prevention and treatment of anemia Anemia awareness programs Judges selected the top three presentations, and prizes were awarded to the winners.
Event 4: Community Health Talk at Thiruvennainallur PHC
Date & Time: February 14, 2025, at 12:00 PM Location: Thiruvennainallur Primary Health Centre (PHC) Audience: Rural community members, children and nursing mothers A special health talk was conducted by Dr.Preethi.S, Dr.Priyanka at the Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Thiruvennainallur, focusing on anaemia in women, particularly in lactating mothers and children
Importance of Iron Supplements Dietary Modifications for Better Blood Health Preventive Measures for Maternal & Child Health An exhibition on iron-rich foods was also set up, and an interactive Q&A session encouraged participation from the local community.
Event 5: Screening for Anaemia among School Students
Date & Time: February 18, 2025, at 10:30 AM Location: Annai Vidhya Mandir High school, Thirubhuvanai Target Group: Students aged 10–16 years A health screening program was conducted for school children, focusing on identifying anaemia cases early. Anaemia awareness talk was given by Dr.Srinidhii and sources of iron was explained by Dr.Sawantharia, Senior Resident. Students were distributed prizes for actively involving and identifying iron rich sources.
Students diagnosed with anaemia were counselled on dietary improvements. Educational materials were distributed to teachers and students This screening program aimed to promote early intervention and ensure better health outcomes for school-going children.
Event 6: Community Health Talk at Poovarasankuppam and Arpisampalayam PHC
Date & Time: February 19, 2025, at 10:30 AM Location: Poovarasankuppam and Arpisampalayam PHC Target Group: Students aged 10–16 years Anaemia awareness health talk was given by Dr.Leelavathy and sources of iron was explained by Dr.Anandhraj. Students were distributed prizes for actively involving and identifying iron rich sources by Dr.Sai Harsha.
Event 7: Health talk on Anemia
Date & Time: February 14, 2025, at 10:30 AM Location: Sri Manakula Vinayagar Arts & Science College Target Group: Biotechnology students Health talk was given on highlighting the signs and symptoms of anaemia along with prevention and treatment strategies by Dr.Arulkumaran. Around 200 students participants.
The World Anaemia Awareness Day 2025 celebrations at SMVMCH successfully raised awareness about anaemia prevention and management. Through exhibitions, health talks, screenings, and community outreach, the event educated hundreds of individuals on the importance of maintaining healthy haemoglobin levels.
The event’s success was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Department of Paediatrics, faculty, postgraduate students, hospital staff, school teachers and community health workers.
“All are invited” to continue spreading awareness and promoting blood health in our communities.