Micronutrient deficiencies and anemia among adolescents in rural south India: A game changer for public health interventions

TL;DR

This study finds that iron deficiency is a major cause of anemia among adolescents in rural South India, especially in girls.

Contribution

The study identifies iron deficiency as a key driver of anemia and highlights gender disparities in rural adolescent populations.

Findings

Anemia was detected in 17.4% of adolescents, with higher prevalence in girls.

Iron deficiency was indicated by lower serum iron and higher TIBC in anemic participants.

Ferritin levels were significantly lower in anemic boys compared to anemic girls.

Abstract

Anemia remains a significant adolescent health concern with multifactorial causes. Hence, 253 adolescents were assessed for anemia
using biochemical markers. Anemia was detected in 17.4% (95% CI: 6.3-28.5%) and it is more frequent among girls (20.16%) than boys
(14.7%). It correlated with faith (p=0.025) but not with socio-economic status, caste, or parental education. Anemic participants had
lower serum iron (p=0.001) and higher TIBC (p=0.025) suggesting iron deficiency. Ferritin was markedly lower in anemic boys compared to
anemic girls. Elevated TIBC in 78.26% reinforced the prevalence of iron deficiency. These findings highlight the need for targeted
nutritional interventions and screening programs.