Anemia Among Women and Children in Saudi Arabia: Is it a Public Health Burden?

Abstract

Background: Anemia is a global health burden affecting developing and developed countries alike, estimated to affect one-third of the world's population. The most prevalent type of anemia globally is iron deficiency anemia. The groups most vulnerable to developing anemia include children, women (particularly pregnant women), and the elderly, primarily in developing nations. Anemia is also widespread in Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, where estimates suggest the disease affects up to 70% of women and children. The aim of the current review was to report the incidence of anemia among women and children in Saudi Arabia and the impact of anemia on pregnancy.

Methods: The main electronic databases were searched for publications on anemia among women and children in Saudi Arabia.

Results: In Saudi Arabia, the incidence of anemia among children and women ranges from 12.5% to 70%, varying by province. Younger pregnant women exhibit a higher prevalence of anemia than older pregnant women. The primary risk factors for developing anemia among children and women in Saudi Arabia include lifestyle choices, low dietary intake, the number of pregnancies, and sociodemographic factors. Consequently, anemia is a major health burden in Saudi Arabia, necessitating serious planning and intervention to reduce anemia-related complications among women and children.

Conclusions: Despite substantial development and improvements in socio-economic factors, anemia remains a major health issue for children and women in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, the underlying factors, including nutritional and other risk factors, warrant further investigation.