[Iron deficiency anaemia in population of Polish patients--results of epidemiological screening study]

(1) Determination of risk groups in polish patients population and occurence of iron dificiency anaemia, (2) Education of patients, (3) Efficacy estimation of treatment and prophylaxis of iron supplement Sorbifer Durules, (4) Safety estimation of iron supplement in a large group of patients.

All patients comming to 300 Centers of Primary Care during 2 days were asked to fill up a inquiry regarding risk factors of iron dificiency. In patients belonging to risk groups blood cell count was performed. 7577 inquiries were gatherd: in 552 cases Hb level <11 g/dl. People with lower Hb level were given prophylactic dose (1 tbl daily) or treatment (2 tbl). After 6 weeks blood cell count was done again.

22% of patients comming to Primary Care Office belonged to iron deficiency risk groups. 7% of them had Hb <11 g/dl. Among women the main reason for iron deficiency were abundant menstual bleedings, among people over 50 years the main risk factor was inadequate nutrition. Study proved high efficacy of iron supplementation (p < 0.001) and its good tolerance.