The results so far of a study among Bradford youngsters have produced some worrying findings about the number of them suffering from anaemia. It is too early to know how widespread the problem is. That will have to await the results of a testing programme carried out by 40 GP practices proposed by health visitor Catherine Bartle.

However, the findings of work done by Mrs Bartle and her team, showing that anaemia among the Bradford children they have tested is three or four times the national average, have already spotlighted a significant problem. According to Bradford paediatrician Dr Steve Green, iron-deficiency anaemia can affect the overall development of a child. Not only will it cause them to suffer poor health now, but they are also likely to be storing up problems for the future.

A major cause of iron-deficiency is believed to be poor diet, with the youngsters not getting enough fruit and vegetables. This obviously reflects the changes which have taken place in the nation's eating habits. The traditional scene of the family sitting down together for a meal of meat and two vegetables followed by a pudding is gradually being replaced by a tendency to "graze".

Different members of families grab snacks when the mood takes them. Convenience foods have replaced "real cooking". Schoolchildren too often reject a balanced meal in their canteen for a bag of chips from a local shop.

There is a real need to educate families - the parents as well as the children - about the huge importance that a proper diet can have on their health, well-being and future prospects.

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