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ABSTRACT:
Aim and Objective: The objective of the study is to assess the effect of health education and iron supplementation on haemoglobin (Hb) and haematocrit (Hct) levels in adolescent girls. Methods: Prospective observational study was conducted in adolescent girls (13-19 years) in the selected schools of kanchipuram district. Group A received iron with folic acid supplementation whereas group B subjects received health education along with iron and folic acid supplementation. Hb concentration and Hct values were estimated using digital haemoglobin testing system at baseline and follow up (3 months later). Results: On the comparative assessment of iron supplementation with health education and iron supplementation alone, the present study showed a statistical significant increase in Hb and Hct levels in group B compared to group A subjects. Conclusion: In conclusion, our findings suggest that health education and weekly iron folate supplementation can improve the Hb and Hct levels and also health education should be a part of our education system for the improving the health status of adolescent girls.
KEYWORDS: Adolescent Girls; Iron Deficiency Anaemia; Nutrition Education.
INTRODUCTION:
In most developing countries, iron deficiency anaemia is a serious health problem. The prevalence of anaemia among adolescent girls in India is 90%1. Adolescent girls need higher iron requirements because of onset of menstruation and expansion of blood volume due to growth spurts2, 3. Hence no added iron supplementation, poor diet, loss in menarche and growth put them in a greater risk of anaemia. After marriage these adolescent girls are subject to have high demand for iron during pregnancy 4. To combat iron deficiency anaemia, the idea of weekly iron supplementation was reached to stop the progress of anaemia in adolescent girls5.
In worldwide, iron deficiency anaemia is the third cause of loss of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) among girls and women between the age group of 15-44 years6. In India 50 to 90 % of adolescents girls are anaemic7, 8. To prevent iron deficiency anaemia during pregnancy and consequences, targeting adolescent girls is essential9. In adolescent girls, weekly iron and folic acid supplementation was effective in reducing the prevalence of anaemia in schools with greater compliance and supervision10, 11. To prevent anaemia, weekly iron and folic acid supplementation is recommended which has fewer side effects12, 13....