Prevalence of Anemia Among Adolescent Girls in Sub-Saharan Africa: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

TL;DR

This study finds that about 30% of adolescent girls in Sub-Saharan Africa suffer from anemia, highlighting a major public health issue.

Contribution

The study provides a comprehensive meta-analysis of anemia prevalence among adolescent girls in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Findings

The pooled prevalence of anemia among adolescent girls in Sub-Saharan Africa is 30%.

Significant heterogeneity was observed across the studies included in the analysis.

Abstract

To estimate the prevalence of anemia among adolescent girls in Sub-Saharan Africa through a systematic review and meta-analysis.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of both published and unpublished studies conducted in Sub-Saharan Africa were employed in this study. Using pertinent search terms, all research found in Google Scholar, HINARI, Cochrane Library, and PubMed was located. Following the evaluation of the evidence with the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for cross-sectional studies, data were extracted.

Thirty studies met the inclusion criteria, comprising a total sample of 12,295 adolescent girls. The pooled prevalence of anemia among adolescent girls in Sub-Saharan Africa was 30% [95% CI: 29%–32%], with significant heterogeneity observed (I2 = 99.2%, p < 0.001).

The high pooled prevalence of anemia among adolescent girls in Sub-Saharan Africa indicates a substantial public health concern. This review provides up-to-date epidemiological data that can support health policymakers. Strengthening anemia prevention and control strategies, along with establishing targeted interventions at local health system levels, is crucial.

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