Association between hemoglobin level and food consumption among female nursing students at King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Anemia exerts significant adverse impacts on health and the economy, both in developing and developed nations across the globe. The physiological and physical changes that transpire during adolescence and early adulthood necessitate heightened nutritional requirements. Among teenagers and young adults, anemia manifests as a frequent condition. The objective of our study was to determine the prevalence of anemia and its contributing factors among female nursing students enrolled at King Faisal University in Al Hasa, located in the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia. Employing a cross-sectional design, we conducted an investigation involving a cohort of 83 nursing students who were in good health. To ensure adherence to COVID-19 safety protocols, we employed a practical sampling method to collect the samples. Hemoglobin (Hb) levels were assessed using a finger-stick capillary blood sample. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria for diagnosing anemia, hemoglobin levels exceeding 12.0 g/dL indicate the absence of anemia. The study findings revealed that 59% of the participants were diagnosed with anemia due to their low hemoglobin levels. Substantial associations were observed between hemoglobin levels, anemia, and clinical factors such as chronic illnesses, heavy menstrual cycles, and dietary supplements. Based on these outcomes, anemia is highly prevalent among female university students. Furthermore, the research population may be susceptible to anemia if they engage in practices such as tea or coffee consumption, irregular meal patterns, or the intake of foods that impede iron absorption.