AnemiaPhone has been developed by Cornell University researchers to accurately, quickly, and cheaply, assess iron deficiency.
- It has been transferred to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for integration into its programmes for anaemia, women’s health, and maternal and child health throughout the country.
About AnemiaPhone Technology
- What is AnemiaPhone?
- Developed by Cornell University researchers, it provides a quick, accurate, and affordable method to assess iron deficiency, a leading cause of anemia.
- Uses a test strip coupled with portable Wi-Fi or Bluetooth-enabled readers to deliver point-of-care screening and diagnosis.
- Makes anemia screening affordable and accessible, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
- Reduces the dependence on centralized labs and extensive equipment, enabling faster interventions.
- Transfer to India:
- Transferred to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on November 7, 2024, at no cost.
- Integrated into programs for anemia, women’s health, and maternal and child health, including the Anaemia Mukt Bharat initiative.
- Relevance in India:
- Anaemia prevalence: Affects 50%-70% of pregnant women in India, leading to serious health consequences ranging from fatigue to life-threatening conditions.
- Supports the goals of Anaemia Mukt Bharat (Anemia-Free India) by addressing the gaps in screening and early diagnosis.
(Source: The Hindu)
