Iron Deficiency Anaemia Among Young Females in Rural Almora: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study on Prevalence, Severity, and Associated Determinants

Abstract

 Background: Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) remains one of the most widespread nutritional disorders globally, disproportionately affecting young women of reproductive age in low- and middle-income countries. Rural communities in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand, particularly Almora district, face compounding vulnerabilities including dietary limitations, limited healthcare access, and socioeconomic deprivation.

Objectives: This study aimed to assess sociodemographic characteristics, determine the prevalence and severity of iron deficiency anaemia, and identify significant associations between anaemia and dietary, socioeconomic, menstrual, and educational factors among females aged 20–25 years in rural Almora.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 females aged 20–25 years, selected through non-probability convenient sampling. Haemoglobin levels were assessed using WHO-defined thresholds for anaemia classification. Chi-square tests were applied to determine associations between anaemia and key determinants. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.