Iron-Deficiency Anemia in Women of Reproductive Age in Urban Areas of Quetta District, Pakistan

Abstract

Anemia is associated with poor health outcomes, and the prevalence of anemia is a significant public health indicator for both developed and developing countries. Iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) is the most common type of anemia, which often develops during pregnancy. A cross-sectional study was conducted in the urban areas of Quetta city among the women of reproductive age (15-49 years) to update the status of IDA in the region. The study participants ( n = 216 ) were selected on a random basis, and the samples were further distributed by age. Overall, 75% of females were nonanemic, and among those that were anemic, 2% were severe, 13% were moderately, and 10% were mildly anemic. Among the IDA-affected women, 83% were non-pregnant. Age-wise distribution of IDA revealed no significant difference among different age groups, but numerically higher observations were recorded in the age groups of less than 30 years. The highest number of moderately IDA-affected women (15%) were in the age group 15-19 with the following IDA indicating parameters: hemoglobin 9.64 g/dl, mean corpuscular volume 63.11 fl, mean corpuscular hemoglobin 20.40%, red cell distribution 19.28%. This study will be beneficial for illustrating the requirement and the development of a program to raise extended awareness in the Quetta communities to overcome the negative health effects of IDA on the female population.

Prevalence of Iron Deficiency Anemia in School Going Children at District Bannu Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

“…Early-life iron deficiency fragility also has a significant impact on outcomes, preventing both physical and mental development as well as lowering physical well-being, productivity, and employee performance (12) . The WHO requirements for Hb esteem in accordance with age are used to define iron deficiency anaemia: Hb 11.5 g/dL in 6e-11 years old children, Hb 12 g/dL in 12e-15 years old children, or 15e-18 years old children with no pregnant females, and Hb 13 g/dL in 15e-18 years old men (13) . The present evaluation was based on 200 young children ages 5 to 12 who were both male and female and lived close to Bannu.…”

The frequency of vitamin B12 derangements in females presenting for workup of iron deficiency anemia

“…Among these 60 participants had IDA signifying 60% of subjects suffered from IDA. A similar study was conducted in Quetta showing 25% of reproductive-age women were suffering from IDA 23 . IDA may occur even if biochemical analysis shows normal levels of serum iron stores in various inflammatory disorders for example rheumatoid arthritis, hyperthyroidism and adult-onset Still's disease 24 .…”

A review of the dietary diversity and micronutrient adequacy among the women of reproductive age in low‐ and middle‐income countries

“…The quantitative aspect of diet quality includes the dietary nutrient intake and its adequacy aligned with the recommended value. A diet that is low in essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, folic acid, and calcium, can increase the risk of iron deficiency anemia and osteoporosis, which can lead to maternal morbidity and mortality (Qadir et al., 2022 ). Around the world, WRA (both pregnant and non‐pregnant) from LMICs, are at high risk of micronutrient deficiency, also referred to as hidden hunger.…”

“…They have unique nutrient needs to support overall health and well‐being, as well as to prepare for potential pregnancy. Adequate intake of nutrients such as iron, calcium, and vitamin D is important for maintaining healthy bones, as well as preventing iron deficiency anemia (Qadir et al., 2022 ). Adequate intake of folic acid is also important for WRA, as it can help prevent certain birth defects if taken before pregnancy (Bibbins‐Domingo et al., 2017 ).…”