Prevalence and Determinants of Iron Deficiency Anemia in Reproductive-Aged Women: A Clinicopathological and Community-Based Study

Background: Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is the predominant nutritional condition globally, particularly affecting women of reproductive age who are at heightened risk owing to elevated physiological demands, menstrual losses, and inadequate food intake. In Pakistan, despite supplementing initiatives, the prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) remains significant; yet, there is a paucity of research that integrates both clinicopathological and community-based factors. Objectives: To ascertain the prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia among reproductive-aged women in Punjab, Pakistan, and to investigate the clinical, reproductive, and socio-economic variables related with its incidence. Methods: Cross-sectional study was performed from January 2024 to January 2025 at Rawal Institute of Health Sciences, Islamabad, Pakistan , including their adjacent villages. A total of 100 non-pregnant women aged 15 to 49 years were recruited using stratified random sampling. Data were gathered by standardised questionnaires addressing socio-demographic variables, food consumption, reproductive history, and health-seeking behaviour. Venous blood specimens were examined for complete blood count and serum ferritin levels. IDA was characterised by haemoglobin levels below 12 g/dL and serum ferritin levels below 15 ng/mL. Statistical analysis included chi-square tests and logistic regression, with p < 0.05 deemed significant. Results: The incidence of iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) was 44%. Women with iron deficiency anaemia had markedly reduced haemoglobin levels (9.6 ± 1.1 g/dL) and ferritin concentrations (8.7 ± 3.2 ng/mL) in comparison to non-anemic women (12.8 ± 1.3 g/dL and 25.3 ± 7.4 ng/mL, p <0.001). Independent factors were poor socio-economic status (OR: 2.94), high parity (≥3) (OR: 3.41), excessive menstrual bleeding (OR: 2.63), and rural location (OR: 2.12), but contraceptive usage had a protective effect (OR: 0.46). Conclusion: IDA remains highly prevalent among Pakistani women and is strongly influenced by socio-economic deprivation, reproductive factors, and menstrual health. Integrated strategies addressing nutrition, family planning, and community education are urgently needed.