Prevalence of Iron Deficiency Anemia among Female Elementary School Children in Northern Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Abstract. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia in relation to variables such as: age, weight, height, mother s education, number of family members, and nutritional habits among female elementary school children (age 6-12 years) in the western province of Saudi Arabia. A total of 123 female children were selected for this study. Complete blood count, serum iron, ferritin and total iron binding capacity were measured to assess iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia. Overall, the prevalence of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia in this study was 23.0%. Data showed that the majority of anemia cases in this study were normocytic type. Anemia was more prevalent among students of age 10-12 years as compared to younger age group. In addition, there was no relationship between iron deficiency anemia and number of family members or mother s education. Anemic students were not aware of their nutritional habits. It was concluded that iron deficiency anemia is a problem among young girls, especially among those of age 12 years in western region of Saudi Arabia. It is recommended that the iron-folate supplementation program for pregnant women be expanded to non-pregnant women, including young girls.