203 Is screening for anemia in newly arrived refugees recommendable? A cross-sectional study of anemia prevalence in refugees resettled in Aarhus, Denmark

Abstract EP2.5, e-Poster Terminal 2, September 5, 2025, 13:05 - 13:30 Anemia is a major contributor to the global burden of disease and is associated with poor health outcomes and impaired quality of life. Refugees often flee countries in conflict and with deteriorating health systems. As a result, refugees are particularly vulnerable to several underlying causes of anemia. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate prevalence of anemia and associations between anemia and various sociodemographic factors in a cohort of refugees resettling in Denmark. Methods: Using a cross-sectional study design, we offered health assessments including medical interview, physical examination and blood samples to all newly arrived refugees in Aarhus Municipality in the period from January 2014 – November 2018. We extracted data on 1) hemoglobin level, 2) age, 3) sex, 4) pregnancy status, 5) country of origin, 6) educational attainment and 7) route of arrival in Denmark. Results: The study population consisted of 1261 refugees that accepted to participate in the health assessment and had a blood sample including measurement of hemoglobin taken. 45.8% were female and the main countries of origin were Syria, Eritrea and Iran with smaller representation of several other countries. A total of 101 participants (8%) had anemia. Anemia prevalence was high among pregnant woman and adults >25 years, and low among children <15 years. Prevalence was higher among quota - and family reunified refugees compared to refugees with asylum seeking background. Results varied notably when anemia was analyzed using hemoglobin thresholds defined by the WHO compared to local guidelines. Conclusion: Anemia is a common condition among refugees and is associated with various sociodemographic factors. Applying internationally determined hemoglobin thresholds when investigating anemia in refugee populations might reflect anemia prevalence more accurately. Hemoglobin measurement is a low-cost, simple procedure, and thus, we recommend that screening for anemia is included in health screening programs for refugees.