The Prevalence of Iron Deficiency Anemia and its Associated Risk Factors among a Sample of Females in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Objectives: To assess the prevalence of iron deficient anemia (IDA) within Saudi Arabian females and to examine the risk factors leading to the IDA. Methods: A cross-sectional study on 683 healthy females aged between 18 and 40 years was performed within April 2016. Data on the participants’ socio-demographics, diet, health, anthropometry, and hematological and biochemical iron status indices were gathered. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used in order to reveal the IDA risk factors. Results: A total of 683 non-pregnant women aged between 18-40 years were included in the analysis. The prevalence of IDA was 41.6%. In the multivariate regression analysis; inadequate iron and vitamin C intakes, infrequent (≤2 times per week) consumption of red meat and fish, menstruation disorder eg: (Twice or more per month), (more than 8 days), (blood clotting and heavy blood flow),blood disorder and previous blood transfusion, past personal history of IDA and familial history of IDA were significantly associated with increased odds of IDA. Conclusion: To reduce IDA in Saudi Arabian women, the country needs a multifaceted approach that incorporates iron supplementation, food fortification, rich dietary iron sources and by raising awareness of the food and drinks which facilitate or hinder the bioavailability of iron.