Abstract

PANDU: A SHORT REVIEW ARTICLE

Dr. Nishit Thakrar* and Dr. Rahul Khali

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Abstract

In Ayurveda, Pandu Roga is recognized as a distinct disease, with its own specific Nidana, Purvarupa, Rupa, Sampoorapti, and Chikitsa. This disease, Pandu, is characterized by a noticeable pallor of the body, which closely resembles "Anaemia" in modern medical science. It results from a reduction in the number of red blood cells (RBCs) per cubic millimeter of blood and a decrease in hemoglobin (Hb) levels, leading to pallor and other associated symptoms. The significance of discussing Pandu Roga is highlighted by its widespread impact. It is one of the most common nutritional disorders globally, particularly in countries like India, where socio-economic challenges, illiteracy, and malnutrition are prevalent among large segments of the population. Pandu affects both physical and mental health, especially in children, impairing school performance and increasing vulnerability to infections. Moreover, infants born to anemic mothers tend to have low iron reserves and are more likely to develop anaemia later in life, with its negative consequences. The term "Anaemia," derived from Greek, means "a lack of blood." In reality, it refers to a deficiency in hemoglobin, which exists in various degrees. Anaemia is the most prevalent and widespread nutritional disorder globally, affecting a significant number of children and women in developing countries. It is also notably common in industrialized nations. The statistics are staggering, with over 2 billion people—approximately 30% of the global population—affected by iron-deficiency anaemia, particularly in resource-poor areas. Anaemia can arise from a variety of causes, such as nutritional deficiencies, acute or chronic blood loss due to trauma or diseases, the destruction of red blood cells caused by metabolic or immunological disorders or toxins, bone marrow diseases, systemic conditions like infections and cancers, kidney failure (since the kidneys produce erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production in the bone marrow), and genetic abnormalities in the formation of hemoglobin, such as Thalassemia and sickle cell disease. This discussion will primarily focus on the nutritional aspects of anaemia, as public awareness in this area can aid in its prevention and treatment.

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