Comparison of anemia between pregnant and non-pregnant adolescents in the Gaza Strip

Background and aim Anemia is considered to be an alarming worldwide public health problem. The adolescents are one of the most vulnerable age groups in regards to nutritional deficiency and need more nutritional care for proper growth and development. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of anemia among females in the Gaza Strip. Methods The hemoglobin test was completed by 316 adolescent female from secondary schools and 202 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics. Results The overall prevalence was 33.5 vs. 27.2%. During gestation, the percentage of anemia increased. Overall, anemia is a public health problem among young women. Conclusion Approximately one of three female students in the studied group was diagnosed as anemic. The study showed that anemia existed among female students before conception, and pregnancy did not increase anemia in adolescents, which is partly due to the different WHO standards. This data shows the need for a public health program concerning prevention. © Springer-Verlag 2012.