Prevalence of Anemia in Egypt (Al-Gharbia Governorate)

Abstract

Introduction: Iron deficiency anemia is the most commen type of anemia related to mal nutrition world wide. It represents a major problem in developing countries, especially in Egypt. Purpose: The present study was designed to assess the prevalence and status of anemia in Al-Gharbia Governorate in Egypt. Material and Methods: 649 mothers and one of their sibling were chosen from different districts with different food habits and socioeconomic status.Hb were determined in mothers and sibling. Anthropometric measurement includes measurements of height and weight was done. Age was recorded. Education, Job, income; marital status and number of personal/family are recorded when possible. Results: No severe anemia (Hb < 7g/dl) was found in any studied group (mothers or sibling), only moderate to mild anemia was found ((Hb > 7g/dl). The prevalence of anemia in mother's is > 47 %, which represent a problem of high degree, while, the prevalence of anemia in sibling is 52.25 & 54.03 % for male and female respectively which represent a problem of high degree. The cause of anemia in mothers may be due to menstrual blood loss, increased duration of menstrual blood flow, while in children may be due to anemic mother, poor, diet, bad food habit. Conclusion: To reduce prevalence of anemia and improve anemic mothers, sibling status in Egypt we needs to improve iron supplementation program