HT Correspondent
BAITHALANGSO, March 27: National Health Mission (NHM), West Karbi Anglong launched a district-wide folic acid awareness campaign in Hamren on Thursday.
The campaign was inaugurated by the Joint Director of Health Services, West Karbi Anglong, Dr Jagat Sing Teron, at the conference hall of the District Health Society.
Dr Teron emphasised the importance of folic acid intake before and during pregnancy in preventing birth defects, miscarriage, premature delivery, and low birth weight.
He stated that 400 micrograms of folic acid should be taken daily for at least three months before and after pregnancy to ensure maternal and child health.
To promote folic acid intake, NHM has planned awareness activities, including Village Health and Nutrition Days and village-level meetings to educate people about folic acid-rich foods such as green vegetables, fruits, eggs, broccoli, nuts, and beans.
District Programme Manager of NHM, Hilton Saikia, addressed the gathering, highlighting that folic acid deficiency can lead to fatigue, weakness, anger, and anemia.
He urged people to maintain a nutrient-rich diet for overall well-being.
The event was attended by health workers from across the district, officials from NHM West Karbi Anglong, and representatives from the Rashtriya Baal Surakshya Karyakram in Baithalangso, Dongkamokam, Umpanai, and Zirikinding.
The campaign aims to raise awareness and promote better nutritional practices among the residents of the West Karbi Anglong district.