Geographical Diversity in Prevalence and Associated Factors of Anaemia among Adolescents of India-A Systematic Review

Background: Anaemia is a global public health issue in India with anaemia prevalence of 56% among adolescent girls. While it affects all age groups, pregnant women and children are reported to be at risk. The study aims to understand the underlying factors of anaemia among adolescents.

Methods: The systematic review has included all studies from the time period, 2000 to 2020 which had anaemia prevalence among adolescent girls (10 to 19 years of age). Scopus and Web of Science databases were used to browse relevant articles within April-June, 2020. Study design, sample size, anaemia prevalence, and the method of Haemoglobin estimation, were some of the information recorded.

Results: A total of 88 articles were selected, out of which 20 were retained as per the inclusion criteria. Study from the east zone reported an anaemia prevalence of 36.4% and a significant association between serum ferreting levels and the severity of anaemia. The anaemia prevalence of different studies from the north, west and south zones ranged from 50-70%, 80-90%, and 30-79% respectively. Socio economic status, education of parents, prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency was some of the important factors contributing to the prevalence were highlighted.

Conclusion: Anaemia prevails across and within the different zones, it is not comparable. However, strengthening of the existing level of effort is necessary to address the issue of anaemia among adolescents in India.