To Assess the Nutritional Status and Prevalence of Anaemia in Adolescent Girls Aged 12-18 Years in Government Schools in Tumkur

Background: Anaemia, a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or haemoglobin, poses a significant public health challenge globally, particularly among vulnerable populations such as adolescents. In India, the prevalence of anaemia among adolescents is alarmingly high, with various studies indicating rates ranging from 40% to over 65% in specific regions. Materials and Methods: This study was a crosssectional study conducted in the Government High Schools in Tumkur and the participants were Adolescent girls between 12-18 years of age attending government schools in Tumkur and who were willing were enrolled for the study after obtaining the written informed consent. The sample size considered was 600cases. The study included children aged between 12 and 18 years of age and excluded the Age group <12years and >18 years, Girls with any genetic disease, metabolic problems or chronic diseases, Girls not giving consent were excluded from the study. Results: Mean height of 158.8+-7.37cm, Mean weight of 54.19+-9.34kg, Mean BMI of 22.03+-3.39 kg/m2. Mild anaemia -366 students, Moderate anaemia -32 students, Severe anaemia -44 students, Normal – 158 students. Stunting was noted in 308 anaemics .236 had LOW BMI with anaemia and 31 was obese. Prevalence of anaemia was 73.6%.Conclusion: Anaemia is prevalent among teenage female students. Implementing regular screening programmes and surveys can aid in the identification of these girls and provide prompt provision of therapy.