Adolescence is a critical life stage. Investments in nutrition, quality education and physical and mental health can offer profound dividends in adult life. An iron deficient diet perpetuates an inter-generational cycle of anaemic women giving birth to premature infants, infants with low iron stores and grow to become anaemic children. This devastates children's physical growth, mental development and school performance

Through a pilot project, CRUSADE aimed to study the problem of anaemia among adolescent girls and take measures to improve the situation by initiating suitable action. The project sought to understand and address the prevalence of anaemia among adolescent girls aged 11-19 years in select villages. The project addressed the children of SHG members and took measures to address anaemia through diet and nutrition.

In the first batch of 2018-20, CRUSADE assessed 200 adolescent girls for their haemoglobin levels and gave proper orientation on menstrual hygiene and the need for nutritious food to overcome the problem. There has been a steady decline in adolescent girls falling below the prescribed haemoglobin level.

The second batch of the pilot study on Adolescent girls anaemia assessment and control programme was carried out in 7 villages concluded towards the end of July 2024. The programme's outcome was optimistic. Most girls had modified their diets, including more iron-rich food. As a result, their haemoglobin levels consistently increased.

Encouraged by the positive impact of the study project, SOTE which supports the initiative has agreed to continue the programme with a fresh batch of 200 girls.

Orientation of menstrual hygiene

Most girls are unaware of menstrual hygiene and also experience irregular menstrual cycles. To address such challenges, CRUSADE provides orientation on menstrual hygiene by a lady doctor.