Awareness of iron deficiency anemia among the adult population in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) occurs when an individual has insufficient iron levels, which could be a consequence of malnutrition. This research aimed to study the level of awareness of IDA among the adult population in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and to explore the relationship between the level of awareness and different socio-demographic factors. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 450 adults living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, during March to August 2020. Data were collected using an online self-administered pretested questionnaire via Google Forms. The generated link was randomly shared on social media. Results: It was revealed that 27.6% of the participants had good knowledge about IDA as evident by 75% or more correct answers of the questions. About half (51.3%) of the participants had heard of IDA, 64% correctly knew the causes, 31.3% correctly knew the clinical features, 56.9% believed that IDA could be prevented, while 46% believed that IDA could be treated, and 66.9% correctly knew the treatment options for IDA. An association was also found between the awareness of IDA and age, gender, marital status, educational level, nationality, and occupation. Conclusion: One-third of the participants had good awareness about IDA. Good awareness was associated with males, married, bachelor’s degree holders, Saudi nationals, and employed individuals.