Evaluation of Ferritin, Albumin, and Total Protein Levels in Premenopausal and Menopausal Women in Okofia, Nnewi Anambra State, Nigeria

The transition from pre-menopause to menopause is marked by significant physiological changes, including alterations in iron metabolism, protein synthesis, and body composition. This study was carried out to determine the level of serum ferritin, albumin, and total protein in premenopausal and menopausal women in Okofia, Nnewi. The study was conducted among ninety women (45 premenopausal and 45 menopausal). The age range for premenopausal and menopausal women was 18-49 and 50-75 years respectively. The serum ferritin, albumin, and total protein levels were evaluated. Using standard procedures results were obtained and subjected to statistical analysis. Results indicated a significantly higher mean ferritin level in the menopausal group (200.36 ± 177.39) (ng/mL) compared to the premenopausal group (87.71 ± 104.84) (ng/mL) (p<0.05), reflecting changes in iron metabolism associated with menopause. No significant difference was observed in mean albumin levels between the two groups (p<0.05), suggesting stable albumin synthesis regardless of menopausal status. However, a significantly lower mean total protein level was noted in the menopausal group (61.71 ± 4.21) (g/l) compared to the premenopausal group (67.41 ± 9.89) (g/l) (p<0.05), likely due to nutritional changes. Anthropometric indices (Body Mass Index, Waist Circumference, Hip Circumference) and blood pressure (Systolic Blood Pressure, Diastolic Blood Pressure) were significantly higher in the menopausal group compared to the premenopausal group, indicating increased central adiposity and cardiovascular risk. A positive correlation was found between ferritin and total protein levels in the menopausal group (r=0.348, p=0.019), while no significant correlations were observed between ferritin and albumin or between total protein and albumin. Similarly, no significant correlations were found between these biomarkers in the premenopausal group. Furthermore, no significant correlations were detected between anthropometric indices and blood pressure in both groups. These findings underscore the impact of menopause on iron metabolism, protein status, and cardiovascular risk, highlighting the need for targeted health interventions during the menopausal transition.