A study to find out the prevalence of iron deficiency among women of different age groups

Esther Jothi Shelcia; Santhini Gopalakrishnan; Haritha Nagarajan

Esther Jothi Shelcia Department of Biochemistry, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Tamil Nadu, India
Santhini Gopalakrishnan Department of Biochemistry, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Tamil Nadu, India https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3607-9625
Haritha Nagarajan Department of Biochemistry, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Tamil Nadu, India https://orcid.org/0009-0005-8875-7386

Keywords: anemia, iron deficiency, prevalence, women groups

Abstract

Iron deficiency can result from a low nutritional supply, increased demand, or blood loss. Worldwide, deficiency anemia (IDA) is a significant problem and the most neglected micronutrient deficiency among children, adolescent girls, and pregnant women. According to a recent study, 58.6% of children, 53.2% of non-pregnant women, and 50.4% of pregnant women are being affected. The aim is to find out the prevalence of iron deficits among women of different age groups. This is a cross-sectional study in which 300 women from all age groups were included. Women of the age group between 13 to 80 years were included in the study. Hemoglobin estimation will be done by Sahli’ s method. Total serum iron and TIBC (Total Iron Binding Capacity) will be determined through ferrozine. Ferritin estimation will be done using the CLIA (Chemiluminescent Immunoassay) method. The IDA has the highest prevalence among the age group 36–50 years. This result could lead to higher bleeding levels and a lack of knowledge on deficiency. This study gives an idea about the prevalence of iron deficiency among women of different age groups, which can be observed, and preventive measures can be taken to prevent such deficiency.