Prevalence of Anemia According to Some Hematological Parameters among Reproductive-Age Females in Kermanshah, Western Iran

Background: Iron deficiency anemia is a major public health problem in the developing countries. Anemia decreases physical capacity and adversely affects performance in women. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of anemia based on some hematological parameters among women of reproductive age in Kermanshah, Western Iran. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study in Kermanshah in May 2015. A total of 515 females aged 15-45 years agreed to participate in the study. Blood samples were collected from all participants. The analyzed hematological parameters from the participants' blood samples included the hemoglobin (Hb) concentration, hematocrit, mean cell volume (MCV), mean hemoglobin concentration (MCH), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC). Results: The total prevalence of anemia was 15.1%. Mean concentration of Hb was 13.86 ± 1.08 mg/dL in ages 15 to 25 years, 13.83 ± 1.08 mg/dl in 26 to 35 years, and 13.58 ± 1.27 mg/dl in the age range of 36-45 years. These results showed that the mean concentration of Hb decreased with increase of age. The prevalence of microcytosis and hypochromia were higher in women aged 36-45 years. The hypochromic-microcytic anemia was observed in 81.3% of those with Hb < 12.7 mg/dl. Conclusions: The prevalence of anemia in women of reproductive age is not a health concern in Kermanshah City. However, this does not mean that the importance of prevention programs should be neglected.