IJSR International Journal of Scientific Research 2277 - 8179 Indian Society for Health and Advanced Research ijsr-8-7-20013 Original Research Paper A STUDY ON PREVALENCE OF ANAEMIA AND HAEMOGLOBINOPATHIES AMONG GIRLS LIVING IN HOSTEL OF RAJKOT, GUJARAT. Vachhani Nishith A. Dr. Dr. Sorathiya Varsha P. Dr. Ms. Boghra Disha B. Dr. Ms. Dangariya Ekta R. Dr. July 2019 8 7 01 02 ABSTRACT

Low haemoglobin concentrations and anaemia in women are important risk factors for the health and development. We studied distribution of haemoglobin concentration, prevalence of anaemia and haemoglobinopathies in hostel living girls. 1027hostel living girls in the age group of 11–40 years of Rajkot, Gujarat were the subjects of study. Haemoglobin estimation was performed by automated cell counter and observations were interpreted as per WHO criteria. The study showed 28.72% were affected with various grades of anaemias. 16.55% mildly anaemic, 11.78% moderately anaemic while 0.39% suffered from severe anaemia. Various haemoglobinopathies were also studied by HPLC method. Prevalence of Beta thalassaemia carrier was 4.39%. Low consumption of iron rich foods and faulty dietary pattern cause of high prevalence of nutritional anaemias. Continuous follow–up programme and nutrition education can improve the nutritional status of hostel living girls. Frequent screening for anaemia and haemoglobinopathies and health education is a must for betterment of girls living in hostels.