Prevalence of anemia among late adolescent girls of school going age

Objectives: Anaemia in adolescent girls is a major public health concern in India, driven by nutritional vulnerability, menstrual blood loss and socioeconomic disparities. According to the World Health Organization, anaemia remains one of the leading causes of morbidity in adolescent females. The study aims to estimate the haemoglobin level among adolescent school girls and determine the prevalence of anaemia. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 453 female students (15–18 years) selected through convenient sampling from government Pre-University Colleges in Kolar district, Karnataka. Haemoglobin estimation was done using the EzeCheck digital haemoglobinometer, a validated non-invasive device. Data regarding demographic, socioeconomic, menstrual profile, dietary habits, clinical signs and supplementation history were collected using a structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences v22. Results: The overall prevalence of anaemia was 42.8%, with mild anaemia being the most common category. Significant associations were found between anaemia and: (i) Body mass index ( p = 0.02). (ii) Socioeconomic status ( p = 0.041). Menstrual duration ≥4 days ( p = 0.03). Clinical signs such as conjunctival pallor, pale skin and pale nail beds showed a strong association with anaemia. Conclusion: Anaemia among late adolescent girls in Kolar district represents a moderate yet preventable burden, influenced by nutritional status, menstrual characteristics and socioeconomic factors. Strengthening district-level implementation of Anaemia Mukt Bharat, weekly iron and folic acid supplementation and Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram, along with routine school screening, nutrition education and menstrual health interventions, is recommended for sustainable reduction in anaemia prevalence.