Anemia in Hospitalized Patient: Prevalence, Etiology and Risk Factors

BACKGROUND: Anemia is seen in a large proportion of the population especially in developing countries. It poses a major challenge to improving the health indices especially in the female and pediatric populations. Anemia causes increased disability, morbidity and mortality. Presence of anemia prolongs hospital stay and increases the possibility of re-admission. The diagnosis and management of anemia in hospitalized patients will improve outcomes of this population. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of anemia, its etiology and its association with various risk factors. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY: Department of Medicine, United Medical and Dental College, Karachi from May, 2016 to December, 2016. METHODOLGY: All adult patients admitted in the medical wards of Creek General Hospital were included in the study. Anemia was defined as a hemoglobin of <13g/dl in males and <12g/dl in females.