A study showing correlation between anaemia and common parasitological diseases among adolescent girls in villages of PHC Belkhera, Madhya Pradesh, India

Abstract

Background: India continues to be one of the countries with the highest prevalence of anaemia, especially in rural population. Among adolescents, the girls constitute a more vulnerable group because it is a crucial period particularly with reference to reproductive health. The onset of menarche and early marriage predispose to anaemia. Worm infestation (poor hygiene, open field defecation) also blood loss through menstruation could be probable reason for anaemia in rural population of India. In order to prevent high maternal mortality and high incidence of low birth weight babies in India, there is a need to combat anaemia during adolescence.Methods:This was a Cross sectional (Observational) study carried out during period of August 2007 to July 2008.Results: A total of 200 adolescent girls of 10-19 years participated in this study. Prevalence of anaemia was very high in girls with excessive loss of blood during menses i.e. 80% as compared to girls with normal Bleeding (47%) (p<0.02). Prevalence of anaemia in girls going to open field for defecation was 57% (p<0.045). The prevalence of anaemia was also higher in girls ((83%) having worms in their stool as compare to other girls. It was also found statistically significant (p<0.046).Conclusions:We can infer that certain attributes that are prone to cause anaemia in adolescent girls can be modified by timely and periodically education, and therapeutic intervention.