Prevalence of anemia among children age 10 to 15 years in urban, Chidambaram

Abstract

Back ground: In India, 74% of children and over 50% of adolescent girls and women of reproductive age are anemic.

Aims & Objectives: 1) To find out the prevalence of anemia among children of 10-15 years of age.

 2) To find out the association between anemia and selected socio demographic variables and menstrual blood loss.

 Materials and methods: 500 children of 10-15 years were selected from girl’s higher secondary school, Chidambaram. Details regarding socio demographic variables were collected using pretested proforma and hemoglobin was measured by cyanmethemoglobin method.

Results: Prevalence of anemia was found to be 58.5% (mild 29.6%, moderate 25.6% and severe 32%). There is statistical association between hemoglobin and age, personal hygiene, body mass index and menarcheal status.

Conclusion: Prevalence of anemia in adolescent age is high.  Difference in nutritional needs widens after the onset of puberty.

Key words: adolescents, anemia, BMI, menarche.