Chronic iron deficiency and anaemia were highly prevalent in a population-based longitudinal study among adolescent girls

Abstract

<b>Aim:</b> The combination of iron deficiency and anaemia is a major health problem, and adolescents are an at- risk group. The main aim of this study was to explore the mag-nitude of these conditions among adolescents aged 15–19 and identify possible as-sociated risk factors. <br><b>Methods:</b> This population- based longitudinal study of adolescents in North Norway was conducted in 2010–2011, with a follow-up two years later. Repeated measure-ments of iron deficiency and anaemia and its possible risk factors were studied in 309 girls and 273 boys. <br><b>Results:</b> Iron deficiency and anaemia were found in 18.1% and 19.9% of girls and 1.6% and 2.9% of boys in the first study and about half of the cases were chronic two years later. Most girls had moderate iron deficiency (14.5%) and mild anaemia (16.0%). Daily milk consumption was associated with increased iron deficiency in girls (odds ratio 2.3, 95% confidence interval 1.1–4.9), and the most physically active girls had the lowest levels of iron deficiency (odds ratio 0.4, 95% confidence intervaI 0.2–0.9). Iron deficiency was the most important risk factor for chronic anaemia in girls. <br><b>Conclusion:</b> The results of this study highlight the importance of iron deficiency screening and treatment for adolescent girls.