Knowledge and awareness related to Anemia and its treatment; among the Non-Medico Population in the PCMC Region: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study

Background: Anemia, a significant public health concern, particularly among the young adult population aged 18-25 years, is a condition characterized by low hemoglobin levels and reduced red blood cells. Objectives: A cross-sectional survey study aimed to assess the knowledge and awareness regarding anemia and its treatment in non-medico population. Material & Methods: Data from ACS college of PCMC region were obtained by conducting a survey with 307 respondents from the target age group. The survey instrument consisted of validated closed-ended questionnaire designed to evaluate respondents’ knowledge and practices concerning anemia. Results: The survey revealed a generally high level of awareness about anemia as a health issue caused by low iron levels and reduced red blood cell (RBC) counts. Most respondents (83.1%) identified the complete blood count (CBC) as the primary diagnostic test for anemia and recognized iron supplementation (86.6%) and blood transfusions (89.6%) as treatment options. However, gaps in knowledge were identified. The contributing factors, such as worm infestations (37.1%), heavy menstruation (78.5%), and dietary deficiencies (14%), are not widely understood. The survey also highlighted societal biases, with 68.4% perceiving anemic adolescent girls as physically feeble. Regular hemoglobin monitoring and deworming medication intake practices were limited. Conclusion: Anemia awareness was relatively high among the studied population, targeted educational efforts could enhance the understanding of its multifactorial causes, symptoms and treatment. Identified knowledge gaps like misconceptions and biases can lead to improved anemia prevention. Regular hemoglobin monitoring and increasing access to deworming medication could be valuable interventions.