Question
What is the correct daily dose of Iron and Folic acid to be prescribed to a child aged 12 years?
| A. | 20 mg elemental Iron and 100 mcg folic acid |
| B. |
30 mg elemental Iron and 250 mcg folic acid |
| C. |
60 mg elemental Iron and 300 mcg folic acid |
| D. |
100 mg elemental Iron and 500 mcg folic acid |
Show Answer
|
Correct Answer » C Explanation |
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According to the National Iron Plus Initiative (NIPI) by the Government of India, the recommended daily dose of Iron and Folic Acid (IFA) for adolescents (10–19 years) is:
- 60 mg elemental iron
- 300 mcg folic acid
This dosing applies to both boys and girls in the age group of 10–19 years, including 12-year-old children.
Rationale for Iron and Folic Acid Supplementation in Adolescents:
- Increased iron requirement due to rapid growth during adolescence.
- Prevention of iron deficiency anemia, which is highly prevalent among adolescents in India.
- Improvement of cognitive function, physical growth, and overall well-being.
- Folic acid supports DNA synthesis, cell division, and prevention of neural tube defects in future pregnancies for adolescent girls.
National Iron Plus Initiative (NIPI) Guidelines:
| Age Group | Elemental Iron (mg) | Folic Acid (mcg) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6–59 months | 20 mg | 100 mcg | Biweekly |
| 5–9 years | 45 mg | 400 mcg | Weekly |
| 10–19 years | 60 mg | 300 mcg | Weekly |
Note: Adolescents are given one IFA tablet weekly under supervised administration in schools and Anganwadi centers.