Anaemia
Anaemia affects nearly half of Tanzania's women and children. The most common cause is iron deficiency, which is easily treated with iron tablets.
Always confirm diagnosis and treatment with a qualified health professional.
Compiled from public health references including the CDC, Mayo Clinic, WebMD, the World Health Organization, and the Tanzania Ministry of Health.
Overview
Anaemia is a condition where the blood lacks enough healthy red blood cells or haemoglobin. In Tanzania, causes include iron deficiency (most common), malaria, hookworm, vitamin B12/folate deficiency, and sickle cell disease. Pregnant women and children under 5 are most affected.
Common Symptoms
- Fatigue and weakness
- Pale skin, nails, and gums
- Shortness of breath on exertion
- Dizziness and headache
- Cold hands and feet
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- In children: poor growth, difficulty concentrating at school
Treatment
- Iron-deficiency anaemia: Iron tablets + vitamin C (to improve absorption); treatment for 3–6 months
- Malaria-related anaemia: Treat malaria first
- Hookworm: Mebendazole or albendazole (deworming)
- Severe anaemia: Blood transfusion may be required
- Pregnant women receive free iron-folate supplements at antenatal care
- A haemoglobin blood test confirms diagnosis
Prevention
- Eat iron-rich foods: red meat, leafy green vegetables, beans, lentils
- Eat vitamin C alongside iron-rich foods
- Antenatal iron-folate supplementation for pregnant women
- Deworming every 6 months for children in endemic areas
- Malaria prevention (bed nets) reduces anaemia from malaria
Cost & NHIF Coverage
Public facilities: Haemoglobin testing and iron/folic acid supplementation are free or low-cost, especially through antenatal and under-5 clinics.
NHIF: Covers testing and treatment for the underlying cause at accredited facilities.
Private facilities: Full blood count TZS 15,000–30,000; iron supplements a few thousand TZS per month; if a blood transfusion is needed for severe anaemia, expect significant additional cost — confirm coverage with your insurer beforehand.
Estimated ranges — actual cost varies by facility. Confirm with reception and check your insurer's coverage before treatment.
Where to Get Care
Confirm with reception that the facility treats this condition and that your insurer is accepted before visiting.