Iron Deficiency Anemia in Female Adolescents: An Epidemiological Study From Eastern Iran-A Cross-Sectional Study

Iron deficiency is the most widespread nutritional deficiency worldwide. Although iron deficiency can affect women throughout their reproductive years, late adolescence (16-18 years) represents a particularly vulnerable period because of rapid growth, increased iron requirements, establishment of menstrual cycles, and dietary transitions. Identifying iron deficiency during this critical developmental stage may facilitate early intervention before entry into adulthood and the broader reproductive period. Since there is no confirmed information on the prevalence of iron deficiency in this high-risk age group in South Khorasan Province, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of IDA among female high school students in Birjand.

This study was conducted on blood samples from participants to analyze serum ferritin, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), iron as well as complete blood count (CBC). Written consent was obtained before sample collection. The samples were then sent to a medical diagnostic facility for analysis. IDA was diagnosed based on the criteria established by the World Health Organization (WHO).

The study included 148 participants, with an average age of 17.47 ± 1.209 years (range: 16-18). Among the 143 participants, 15.5% were diagnosed with anemia, while 7.4% were classified as iron deficiency anemia. The mean levels of ferritin, TIBC, and serum iron were 44.199 ng/mL, 327.79 µg/dL, and 97.31 µg/dL, respectively. Out of all, 8.8% of individuals were assigned to the first phase of progress to IDA, whereas 2.7% were assigned to the second phase.

Findings of the present study showed that iron deficiency is an increasing concern in this population and needs to be addressed.