342 work. Anemia 11nd iron deficiency also increases complications dllring pregnancy including premature delivery and low birtlnveight-babies. Jt has been suggested that iron deficiency increases susceptibility to infections. Among children, iron deficiency subnormal cognitive performance. Causes of iron deficiency 1. Decreased absorption of iron whicl1 may be due to decreased intake or poor bioavailability oriron depending on whether source in the diet is heme or non­ heme iron. Absorption of iron from heme sources is higher than fron non­ heme fron. In addition, µresence of inhibitors such as oxalates (from leafy vegetabes) and phytates (from cereals) and tannin (from tea) form insoluble complex with iron and thu,c; it is not available for absorption. On the other hand, vitamin C and meat, fish, poultry can enhance absorptio n of iron. 2. Increased blood loss due to hookworm and malaria and to a limited extent tricburis; excessil,-e menstrual flow and bleeding from the gastrointeslinal tract due to ulcers. 3. lncreased requirements irn infancy, pregnancy adolescence. Clinical features of iron deficiency anemia are non-specific. Pallor should be examined at three :;ites: conjuncq\ ·a, the inner lips and nail beds and palm of hands. Other clinical features are respiratory distress, sleeplessness and easy fatigabi Hty, reduced power of concentration. · Diagnosis Diagnosis of anemia is based on determination of hemoglobin and then specific-tests may be requested (refer to the bioc]1emical method section) Treatment For immediate alleviation of anemia, iron. supplementa tion is necessary. The dosage will depend the age and physiological status of the patient. Prevention and Control Approaches to the prevention and control of anemia include the following: 1. Iron supplementation 2. Control of infections 3. Forti. fication offood 4. Nutrition education 5. Public health measures 6. Combination of approaches 3. Vitamin A Deficiency Disorders Vitamin a deficiency is defined as the condition that results when the level of total body stores of re. tinol nod of the active metabolites is depleted such that normal physiologic function is impaired. Vitamin A deficiency disorders (VADD) describes the spectrum of conditions associated with Vitamin A deficiency from chronie d. ietary deficit, tissue depiction, systemic effects, xerophthalmi~ and finally corneal blindness. Vitamin A deficiency is primarily due to Jack of intake of the good sources: namely: animal sources, liver, eggs, meat, milk and dairy products. Dietary lack of fat, protein 