Abstract

Sushmita Rampratap Sahu* and Dr. Archana Makarand Joshi

ABSTRACT

Background: anemia is one of the most important conditions in developing countries like india. Iron deficiency is most important factors in anemic patients. There are various risk factors for the development of iron deficiency anemia. If we come to know the most important risk factors for iron deficiency anemia in particular locality, we can minimize the various complications associated with iron deficiency anemia by taking various preventive measures. Aims and objectives: this study was undertaken to find out various risk factors of iron deficiency among adult population and know the clinical manifestations related to it. Material and method: after detailed clinical history and examination, preliminary blood tests including complete blood counts, reticulocyte count and blood film examination were done. In patients suspected to have iron deficiency anemia, serum iron studies (serum iron, total iron binding capacity and serum ferritin) were done to confirm the diagnosis. Results: among the selected anemic patients, 65% were of iron deficiency anemia, while 35% were of non-iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency anemia was more common among females (57%) than males (43%). the risk factors for iron deficiency were found to be nutritional deficiency (30%), various gastrointestinal pathologies (12%), menorrhagia (11%), pregnancy (10%), hematuria (9%), inflammatory diseases (9%), hemorrhoids (7%), bone marrow depression (4%), malignancy (3%), hypothyroidism (3%) and hookworm infestation (2%). Conclusion: nutritional deficiency was found to be the most common cause of iron deficiency anemia in females and gi pathologies and nutritional deficiency in males of rural area.