High Anemia Awareness Does Not Mitigate Insomnia Risk in Ghanaian University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract

Background: Anemia and insomnia represent significant public health concerns among university students. However, their interrelationship and the potential role of anemia prevention knowledge in mitigating these conditions remain unexplored in Ghanaian tertiary institutions.

Aim: This study determined the prevalence of anemia and insomnia among Ghanaian university students. Likewise, the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding anemia prevention and the association between anemia prevention knowledge and insomnia status were explored.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 undergraduate students at the University of Cape Coast, Ghana. Hemoglobin levels were measured using a HemoCue analyzer. Structured questionnaires assessed sociodemographic characteristics, anemia knowledge, attitudes, and practices, whereas the Insomnia Severity Index evaluated sleep health. Data were analyzed using chi-square tests and binary logistic regression.

Results: Anemia prevalence was 34.0%, with females disproportionately affected. Moderate-to-severe insomnia affected 13.8% of students. No significant association was found between anemia status and insomnia (χ² = 2.639, p = 0.125). Anemia prevention knowledge was generally high (58.8% good knowledge) but showed no protective effect against insomnia (aOR = 1.08, p = 0.814). Health-related faculty students demonstrated superior anemia knowledge across multiple domains compared to nonhealth peers (p < 0.001). Age ≥ 25 years independently predicted insomnia (aOR = 4.44, p = 0.012). Female sex (aOR = 0.135, p < 0.001) and Christian religious affiliation (aOR = 0.298, p = 0.018) were significant predictors of anemia.

Conclusion: Anemia and insomnia are prevalent but unrelated conditions among Ghanaian university students. Anemia prevention knowledge alone does not confer protection against insomnia. Targeted interventions should address sex-specific nutritional vulnerabilities and age-related sleep disturbances through integrated campus health programs.