Tackling Childhood Anemia in Thailand: A Danone Initiative
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A significant public health concern is emerging in Thailand: a startling number of children are at risk of iron deficiency anemia (IDA). More than one-third face this critical health challenge, according to recent studies. In response,Danone Thailand,a global leader in healthy food and beverages,has launched a extensive campaign,”Smart Thai Children Must Not Be Iron Deficient,” to raise awareness and promote early intervention.
Teh initiative, unveiled on World Iron Deficiency Awareness day, underscores the urgent need for early detection and proactive nutritional care. Danone’s commitment extends beyond this campaign; the company has a long history of partnering with healthcare professionals and communities across Thailand to improve health and nutrition.
The campaign emphasizes the importance of mandatory screening for IDA to facilitate early and effective treatment. this proactive approach is crucial, as Associate Professor Dr. Phongsak Noipayak from the Faculty of Medicine, Vajira Hospital, explains: “Iron deficiency anemia can effect growth, physical development, and brain development, including the functions of the body and brain. If the deficiency is severe or lasts for a long time, it may cause permanent damage.Iron deficiency anemia may not be noticeable to the naked eye. Thus,early screening is very critically important to detect and manage this condition at an early stage.”
Danone Thailand’s Head of Nutrition Design,southeast Asia,Mr. Teerachai wongmethini, adds practical advice: “In the fight against iron deficiency anemia, it is indeed critically important to add iron-rich foods such as meat, liver, eggs, green leafy vegetables, or iron-fortified foods such as iron-fortified milk and cereals to your child’s daily diet. And pairing these foods with foods high in vitamin C will greatly improve the efficiency of the body’s absorption of iron.”
The campaign also features prominent voices sharing their experiences and insights. patricia Rungsri Singhpipat, a well-known celebrity expecting her second child, shared, “Every mother’s intention is to take care of their child’s nutrition as best as possible. But sometimes we just need more knowledge.” She advocates for incorporating iron-rich foods like red meat, beans, and spinach, paired with vitamin C, into children’s diets, and suggests iron-fortified milk as a supplemental option. “Children sometimes are picky eaters,” she notes. “Iron-fortified foods like iron-fortified milk are another option to ensure they are getting enough nutrition to meet their body’s needs.”
Nina, an influencer from “Nina Beauty World,” shared a personal story: “When Nina’s child was diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia, she had no symptoms at all. We took him for a blood test because we where concerned that he was not eating enough. And then we just found out that the children. Most people who begin to develop this condition do not have any identifying symptoms either. Parents like us have his duty was to ensure that he was screened early and prepare food to have proper nutrition,” Nina emphasizes. “You should choose to eat foods that are high in iron. Pair it with vitamin C for good absorption.”
Danone Thailand’s commitment extends beyond awareness campaigns. In July 2024, they conducted non-invasive iron deficiency anemia risk screenings at the Rangsit Children’s Home, under the supervision of the Department of Children and Youth Affairs, providing valuable tools and resources to support early detection and intervention. This multifaceted approach reflects danone’s dedication to improving the health and well-being of children in Thailand.
Danone Expands Access to Iron Deficiency anemia Screening for Thai Children
Danone Thailand is considerably expanding its efforts to combat iron deficiency anemia among children in the country. The company is partnering with major retailers like big C, CJ, and P.Y. Kitsiri Co., Ltd., to provide convenient, non-invasive screening services across key provinces. This initiative builds upon Danone’s existing commitment to improving child health and nutrition.
The program utilizes innovative, bloodless screening tools, making access easier and more comfortable for children. The collaboration with retail partners ensures wider reach and accessibility, particularly in underserved areas.The goal is early detection and intervention, leading to improved health outcomes for thousands of young children.
This isn’t a one-off project; Danone’s commitment extends beyond this initial phase. the company plans to continue collaborating with the Thai government, healthcare professionals, communities, and retail partners to create a lasting solution for addressing iron deficiency anemia and promoting overall child health. this long-term strategy reflects Danone’s dedication to making a lasting positive impact.
Pharmacist Wiratchada Suttayakhom, Director of Health Nutrition at Danone Thailand and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, explained the company’s comprehensive approach: “Danone supports raising awareness about iron deficiency anemia. It began with supporting research on the prevalence of anemia risk factors in the northeastern region of Thailand. Providing knowledge and understanding about this condition to more than 9,000 medical personnel until today and supporting early screening. Our drive for this initiative is in line with our mission to bring good health through food to as many people as possible. It also underscores Danone’s dedication to providing [support]. It follows a sustainability framework called the Danone Impact journey, of which the topic of health is one. At its core, Danone’s Frist 1,000 Days Project promotes the importance of child nutrition from the time they are born in the womb until they are 2 years old. To create a positive impact on children’s health and development This is in line with our mission to create a healthier future for Thai families.”
The initiative mirrors similar efforts in the U.S. to address nutritional deficiencies in children, highlighting the global importance of early intervention and community partnerships in improving public health.
Danone’s commitment to child health underscores the growing recognition of the critical role of nutrition in early childhood development. By partnering with local businesses and healthcare systems, Danone is demonstrating a model for effective public-private collaboration in addressing a significant public health challenge.
Combating Childhood Anemia in Thailand: A Conversation with Dr. Phongsak Noipayak
Danone Thailand launches a major initiative to tackle iron deficiency anemia in children. Senior Editor of World Today News, Sarah Jones, sits down with Dr. Phongsak Noipayak, Associate Professor from the Faculty of Medicine at Vajira Hospital, to discuss the importance of this public health challenge and Danone’s role in addressing it.
Sarah Jones: Dr. Noipayak, thank you for joining us today.Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a serious problem affecting children worldwide. Can you elaborate on the specific challenges Thailand faces regarding this issue?
Dr. Phongsak Noipayak: Certainly. In Thailand, a notable percentage of children are at risk of IDA, impacting their growth, physical progress, and even cognitive abilities. Early detection and intervention are crucial to prevent long-term consequences like stunted growth or delayed cognitive development.
Sarah Jones: Danone Thailand recently launched a campaign called “Smart Thai Children Must Not Be Iron Deficient.” What makes this campaign particularly noteworthy?
Dr. Phongsak Noipayak: Danone’s initiative is considerable as it focuses on raising awareness about IDA, encouraging early screening, and promoting nutritional interventions. By partnering with healthcare professionals, communities, and even retail outlets, they are creating a multi-pronged approach to tackle this problem.
Sarah Jones: What are the key elements of early detection and intervention for IDA?
Dr. Phongsak Noipayak: Regular screenings are crucial,especially for children under five years old. Simple blood tests can quickly identify IDA. Early detection allows for timely treatment with iron supplements and dietary modifications.
Sarah Jones: Danone emphasizes the importance of iron-rich foods in the diet. Can you provide some specific recommendations for parents?
Dr. Phongsak Noipayak: Absolutely. Encourage your children to consume foods rich in iron, such as red meat, liver, eggs, leafy green vegetables, and fortified cereals. Combining these foods with vitamin C-rich sources like citrus fruits or strawberries enhances iron absorption.
Sarah Jones: What message would you like to give to parents concerned about their child’s iron levels?
Dr. Phongsak Noipayak: Don’t hesitate to consult your pediatrician or healthcare provider. Simple blood tests can provide clarity, and early intervention can make a world of difference in your child’s health and development. Remember, prevention and early action are key to ensuring our children thrive.
Sarah Jones: Dr. noipayak, thank you for sharing your expertise and emphasizing the importance of this issue. We hope Danone’s initiative will contribute substantially to improving child health in Thailand.
