Socio-Epidemiological Correlates of Anemia Among Non-Pregnant Females of East and West Uttar Pradesh, India: A NFHS-5 Secondary Data Analysis Highlighting the Need for Precision Public Policy.

Abstract

Anemia remains a persistent public health challenge in India, disproportionately affecting women and undermining maternal and reproductive health outcomes. Despite nationwide efforts, the burden of anemia continues to vary widely across regions, reflecting complex socio-demographic determinants. This study aims to identify region-specific risk factors for anemia among non-pregnant women in East and West Uttar Pradesh (UP), India, using data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5). A secondary data analysis was conducted to explore socio-demographic correlates of anemia among non-pregnant females in East and West UP. Binary and ordinal logistic regression models were employed to analyze various explanatory variables. For variables not meeting the proportional odds assumptions, ordinal variables were binary categorized. Significant regional differences in the correlates of anemia were identified. In West UP, higher odds of anemia were associated with rural residency, alcoholism (odds ratio [OR] = 1.153; p < 0.01), heart disease (OR = 1.155; p < 0.01), younger age, economic disadvantage, illiteracy (OR = 1.335; p < 0.01), and underweight status (OR = 1.523; p = 0.012). In East UP, higher odds of anemia were associated with illiteracy (OR = 1.095; p = 0.010), having a child aged ≤48 months (OR = 1.296; p < 0.01), breastfeeding (OR = 1.067; p < 0.01), alcoholism (OR = 1.155; p < 0.01), hypertension (OR = 1.502; p < 0.01), and underweight status (OR = 1.523; p = 0.012). The study highlights significant differences in the socio-epidemiological correlates of anemia between East and West UP. A universal public health policy is insufficient to address these disparities. Instead, a "Precision Public Policy" tailored to the specific needs of each region is necessary to improve implementation and outcomes.