A study on prevalence of anaemia among adolescent girls in Boko developmental block in Assam

Gitanjan Sarma; Mousumi Krishnatreya; Jutika Ojah

Volume : VI, Issue : XI, November - 2017

A study on prevalence of anaemia among adolescent girls in Boko developmental block in Assam

Gitanjan Sarma, Mousumi Krishnatreya, Jutika Ojah

Abstract :

Background: There is lack of data regarding prevalence of anaemia in adolescent girls in north eastern region of India. Hence, this study was conducted to evaluate the prevalence and factors associated with presentation of anaemia in adolescent girls.

Material and Methods: This cross–sectional study was conducted from 1^st Fauary 2016 to 30^th April 2016 involving 200 unmarried adolescent girls in the age group of 10–19 years in Boko Bongaon block in Assam. Eating habits and blood hemoglobin levels were estimated.

Results: Anaemia was present in 31% (n=62) adolescent girls – mild 48.39% (n=30), moderate 45.16% (n=28) and severe 6.45% (n=4). There was significant association of presence of anaemia with age (p=0.0244), type of diet (p=0.0026), consumption of citrus fruits (p=0.0357), frequency of intake of green leafy vegetable (p<0.0001) and iron folic acid supplementation (p<0.0001).

Conclusion: The prevalence of anaemia in adolescent girls in Boko Bongaon block is 31% and is associated with factors like age, type of diet, consumption of citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, iron folic acid supplements.