Anemia among Women of Reproductive Age Residing in a Stunting Locus Village of Banjar District, Buleleng Regency, Bali Province, Indonesia

Stunting is the most prevalent form of undernutrition, and possessed both immediate and long-term impacts. Higher risk of developing non-communicable diseases, the likelihood infection, and impaired physical and cognitive development, are frequently observed in stunted children. High prevalence of stunting was reported in Indonesia. Maternal anemia is a known contributor of stunting; therefore, in order to provide sufficient intervention, screening of anemia in women of reproductive age residing in a stunting locus can be considered important. Twenty-four women age 18 to 49 years old residing in “Village K”, a stunting locus village in Banjar District, Buleleng Regency, Bali Province, Indonesia, who enrolled in a community development program in August 2024, were participated in this study. Anthropometric measurements were performed, including weight, height, and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), and blood collection for hemoglobin (Hb) and hematocrit (Hct) determination was performed using fingerstick method. Based on body mass index (BMI), 54.2% (13/24) participants were considered obese (BMI ≥25 kg/m2). Fourteen participants (58.3%) were considered anemic, due to Hb and Hct levels below 12 g/dL and 36%, respectively. No significant correlation was identified between MUAC and BMI with both Hb and Hct levels. This study suggested that anemia screening in women of reproductive age may be important, especially in areas designated as stunting locus, in order to provide adequate intervention for women and further contribute to stunting reduction.