Prevalence of iron deficiency and anemia in girls studying in high schools of Ilam city

Introduction: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is the most common micronutrient deficiency in the world and almost a third of the world s population is involved with IDA. It could lead to serious disorders such as impairment of learning and mental focus. Reduction of iron resources of the body results in to an imbalance in the physiological functions. With regard to the role of iron in myelination of neurons and the effect on nerve conduction velocity, iron deficiency could lead to changes in sensory and behaviors responses. Given the importance of anemia and IDA in girls studying in Ilam high schools, this study aimed to determine the prevalence rate of anemia and IDA. Materials and methods: Girls studying in Ilam high schools aged 16-18 years (n=210) were selected by random sampling design. Iron and total iron binding capacity (TIBC) was measured. Complete blood cells count and serum ferritin concentration also was assessed. Anemia and IDA was assessed in several methods. Iron depletion (Id) and Iron deficiency (ID) was checked too. Results: According on the hematological and iron indices, 3.4% to 70.9% of subjects have anemia and iron deficiency. Severity distribution of anemia was categorized as mild (28.5%), moderate (1.4%) and sever (0%). Iron depletion and Iron deficiency was found for 45.2 and 4.3% of study participants respectively. The correlation of hemoglobin (Hb) with ferritin (r=0.1, P= 0.15) and TIBC (r=-0.05, P= 0.4) was not significant. Independent relationship of hemoglobin concentration with MCV, serum ferritin and TIBC were significant. Conclusion: This study shows that the prevalence rate of anemia and IDA is high in girls studying in Ilam high schools. However, it is necessary that be given them proper nutrition program. In the long-term awareness of women s nutrition should be considered and should be taken to reform of their bad habits. Also, enrichment of food products with iron compounds should be considered as a national program. It should be checked also the role of economic status and parasitic diseases of participants in induction of ID and IDA.