Knowledge about iron deficiency anemia in university girls: A perspective for an educational booklet

Abstract

Iron deficiency anemia is a prevalent nutritional deficiency observed among young girls globally. In the city of Hail, college students frequently opt for fast food available at their college food mall. The primary objective of this study is to examine the level of knowledge pertaining to Iron-Deficiency Anemia and awareness regarding a diet rich in iron among female university students. The aim is to promote an understanding of preventive measures for this condition. A cross-sectional research design was employed, and a sample of 700 girls aged between 18 and 25 years, who were non-medical undergraduate students at the University of Hail, was selected using the non-probability convenience sampling technique. Notably, undergraduate students enrolled in the Medicine, Nursing, and Science Colleges were excluded from the study. Data collection was performed using a standardized, pre-designed, and pretested questionnaire. The questionnaire encompassed various aspects, including demographic variables, distribution of obstetrics and menstrual history, questions regarding knowledge about anemia, knowledge about iron-rich foods, and health-seeking behavior. The findings of the study revealed that 35.1% of the students exhibited inadequate knowledge about anemia, and a significant proportion (85.9%) displayed inadequate knowledge about incorporating iron-rich foods into their diet. Additionally, 68.7% of the participants experienced heavy blood flow during their periods for a duration of 4-7 days, while 64.1% had a history of anemia. These results emphasize that this particular demographic group, which consists of women of childbearing age, lacks awareness regarding the importance of iron-rich foods and their inclusion in their diet. Consequently, enhancing their dietary habits and increasing their knowledge about iron-rich foods would help prevent the detrimental effects of anemia. Upon the completion of data collection, all study participants were provided with an informational pamphlet containing details about iron deficiency anemia and its preventive measures.