Anemia and its risk determinants among young adults: A university-based study of Bangladesh

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk determinants of anemia among young adults (university students) in Bangladesh. Methods: A total of 150 students aged 18 years were randomly selected from Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Bangladesh. Data on students' socio-demographic information, hygiene practices, and dietary intakes were collected through a self-administered questionnaire. A blood sample was taken from the students to estimate the hemoglobin level. The students having hemoglobin levels below 13.0 gm/dl for males and 12.0 gm/dl for females were considered anemic. All categorical variables were compared using the chisquare test and regression analysis. Results: The mean (+/-SD) age of the total students was 21.44 (+/-1.64) years. Among 150 students, 46.7 % (n = 70) were males and 53.3 % (n = 80) were females. Of these (n = 150), 22 % (n = 33) were diagnosed as having any form of anemia. Out of 33 anemic students, 70 % (n = 26) had mild anemia, 5 % (n = 7) had moderate anemia and none of the students found to be severely anemic. Among the socio-demographic characteristics, gender and monthly family income had a significant effect on anemia (p < 0.05). Regarding hygiene practices, handwashing with soap before the meal and after toileting, and regular basis nail cutting were significantly associated with a lower prevalence of anemia (p < 0.05). Regarding dietary habits, daily breakfast intake, frequent consumption (3 times/week) of fruits, green leafy vegetables and animal products (meat, fish, and egg) were significantly associated with a lower prevalence of anemia (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Proper health education to increase knowledge about anemia, benefits of healthy dietary habits and the importance of hygiene practice can be implemented among the students.