"Prevalence of anemia and its types in college students with different dietary habits."-EXPLORATORY STUDY

Abstract

Background *
Anemia is a global public health problem. Young adults, particularly college students, are vulnerable due to dietary insufficiencies, increased nutritional needs, and lifestyle factors.
Dietary habits are crucial in determining the hematological profile of individuals. This study aims to find out how common anemia is among college students and whether diet has an effect on the type of anemia.

Methods 
Inclusion Criteria:
1. Students willing to give informed consent.
2. Aged 18-25 years.
Data Collection Tools:
1. Structured questionnaire: demographic details, dietary habits, menstrual history, history of fatigue/ pallor.
2. Hematological assessment: Hemoglobin estimation, CBP
Classification of Anemia:
1. Microcytic anemia: MCV < 80 fL
2. Macrocytic anemia: MCV >100 fL
Statistical Analysis:
1. MS Excel.
2. Descriptive statistics: mean, standard deviation, and prevalence rates.
3. Inferential statistics: Chi-square test; p < 0.05 considered significant.
Ethical Considerations:
1. Ethical clearance obtained.
2. Consent was taken.

Expected Outcome:
1. Identification of the prevalence and type of anemia among college students.
2. Establishment of correlation between anemia.

Results *
The prevalence of anemia was found to be 59.8%. In univariate analysis, low socioeconomic status, low iron intake, vegetarian diet, history of worm infestation, and history of excessive menstrual bleeding showed significant association with anemia.

Conclusion *
There is a correlation between hemoglobin, ESR, RBC count, and blood indices indicating the presence of anemia. Treatment of anemia could significantly improve memory and academic performance of students.