Anemia, Iron Deficiency, Meat Consumption, and Hookworm Infection in Women of Reproductive Age in Rural area in Andhra Pradesh

Iron deficiency anemia poses an important public health problem for women of reproductive age living in developing countries. A prospective study, comprised of written questionnaires and laboratory analysis of hemoglobin (Hb), ferritin, transferrin receptor, and stool hookworm egg count, was undertaken in 99 non-pregnant women. 37.53% were anemic (Hb < 12 g/dL), and 23.10% were iron deficient (ferritin < 15 ng/L). Hookworm infection was present in 51.3% of women, although heavy infection was uncommon (6.29%). Iron deficiency was more prevalent in anemic than non-anemic women (38.21% versus 14.08%, P < 0.001). Consumption of meat at least three times a week was more common in non-anemic women (51.15% versus 66.67%, P = 0.042). Mean ferritin was lower in anemic women (18.99 versus 35.66 ng/mL, P < 0.001). There was no evidence of a difference in prevalence (15.20% versus 17.23%, P = 0.629) or intensity (171.07 versus 129.93 eggs/g, P = 0.412) of hookworm infection between anemic and non-anemic women. Anemia, iron deficiency, and hookworm infection were prevalent in this population. Intake of meat was more clearly associated with hemoglobin and iron indices than hookworm. An approach to addressing iron deficiency in this population should emphasize on iron supplementation, deworming and better public heigine.