Anemia, in adolescent females of preparatory schools in rural areas of sohag district

ABSTRACT

Anemia is generally recognized as the greatest nutritional problem among adolescents, as adolescence is a period of rapid growth, weight gain and blood volume expansion [Beard, et al., 2000][1]. This study aims to measure the prevalence, severity, and risk factors of anemia in adolescent school girls in the rural areas of Sohag district. The present study is a cross sectional study. A cluster sample was used from 6 preparatory rural schools. The total number of the sampled girls was 424 girl, they have undergone, personal interviews and filling of a questionnaire which includes the questions that guide us to the socio-demographic data. General examination which includes observation of the general condition, and pallor, measuring of pulse, weight and height, chest, heart and abdominal examination to detect any gross abnormality. Then every girl was subjected to measuring the blood HB% by Sahle's method. 34.4% have hemoglobin level less than 70% [cut off point] considered anemic. There were significant relationship between hemoglobin level and some socio-demographic characteristics and dietary practices of the studied girls. There is significant increase in the number of anemic girls among those who had early menarche than those who had late menarche. Anemia is prevalent in adolescent girls. However, this is the group that deserves particular attention, as they are the future mothers