Awareness and Prevalence of Nutritional Status of Female College Students in Terms of BMI And Level of Hemoglobin

Introduction: The WHO (World Health Organization) evaluate those 1.62 billion peoples worldwide, or 24.8% of the population, are affected with anemia in both developing and developed countries and specially age group 15-49.99 years non pregnant women are affected highest in number. Prevalence of anemia during pregnancy and maternal fatalities as a result of anemia are greater in India than would be expected given the country's population density. Since girls are particularly at danger due to menstrual cycles and nutritional deficiencies, it is important to raise consciousness and educate children, adolescents, undergraduates, and those approaching marriage in light of these worrying conditions. Boys are still susceptible to this issue. The objective of the current study was to determine the prevalence and awareness of anemia especially female college students and also to compare anemia with nutritional status in terms of BMI (Body Mass Index). Methods: This cross‑sectional study was conducted among 211 female college students studying in Bhavan’s Tripura College of Science and Technology, west Tripura. After their written consent a general information regarding signs and different symptoms of anemia, and dietary habits was collected. This study is carried out to measure the prevalence of anemia among college girls and to compare the level of hemoglobin with their nutritional status (BMI). Results: Prevalence of anemia is observed in study population is 78 (36.97%) students were suffering from anemia. On the basis of severity of anemic condition only 5 (2.37%) students had severe anemia, about 29 (13.74%) had moderate and 44 (20.85%) had mild anemia. Regarding Body Mass Index, 16 (7.58%) were underweight, while 21 (9.95%) were overweight and 8 (3.79%) were obese. In our present study there was a significant relationship was observed between hemoglobin levels and BMI. Conclusion: The overall findings of this research highlight that anemia can affect college girls who are a susceptible group unexpectedly suffering from deficiencies of nutrients. Thus, this study highlights the necessity for interventional plans at primary health‑care systems and awareness programmed in college’s girls for development in their nutritional status of anemic girls to diminish future complications.