Assessing Iron Deficiency and Anemia in Female University Students

Abstract

Iron deficiency is the most prevalent nutritional problem in many parts of the world and the most common 
cause of anemia in Saudi Arabia especially among female. Accordingly, this study was designed to determine 
the prevalence of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia among apparently healthy Saudi young female 
university students studying at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah province. Three hundred ten blood 
samples were collected from the students. Their ages ranged between (18 and 23) years. The data collected 
consisted of two sections: (A) included socio-demographic data on students such as age, height, weight, social 
habits, diseases symptoms, menstrual, dietary, and medical history and (B) consisted of laboratory results 
carried out on each subject. 50.2% of students were normal and hence considered as control group. 25.9% of 
students had deficient iron store and 23.9% of students had iron deficiency anemia. There was a significant 
correlation between iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia with inadequate meat intake and impaired 
exercise capacity. Furthermore, pallor and past medical history of iron deficiency anemia were statically 
significant variables. Therefore, it is recommended to use screening and educational programs for iron 
deficiency anemia among female as high risk groups. Iron supplement and food iron fortification are required 
in order to overcome this simple but common health problem.