Impact of a Health Education Intervention on Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Anaemia among Adolescent Girls: In Special Reference of Rural Indian Regions

Abstract Background: Anaemia among adolescent girls remains a major public health concern in India, particularly in rural areas. Contributing factors include nutritional deficiencies, early onset of menarche, and inadequate health education. A lack of knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to anaemia further exacerbates the problem. Schools provide an effective platform for implementing health education interventions aimed at improving adolescent health. Objectives:The study aimed to assess the impact of a structured health education intervention on knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to iron-deficiency anaemia among high school aged adolescent girls. Methods:A quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test study was conducted among adolescent girls aged 12–19 years attending a government high school in a rural area of Rajasthan, India. Data were collected using a pre-tested and validated KAP questionnaire administered before and four weeks after the intervention. The educational intervention comprised structured health education sessions supported by an informational booklet on iron-deficiency anaemia. The Z-test for proportional differences was used to compare pre- and post-intervention KAP scores. Results:Post-intervention analysis revealed a statistically significant improvement in overall KAP scores. Knowledge related to the causes, prevention, and dietary management of iron-deficiency anaemia improved significantly following the intervention (p < 0.001). Attitudinal improvements included increased awareness of higher iron requirements during adolescence (30% to 60%) and positive perceptions regarding the preparation and consumption of iron-rich foods (p < 0.001). However, no significant change was observed in attitudes toward iron–folic acid supplementation and perceived severity of anaemia (p > 0.05). Practices such as increased intake of heme iron foods, citrus fruits, and reduced consumption of tea and coffee with meals showed significant improvement (p ≤ 0.001). Conclusion:School-based health education interventions are effective in improving knowledge and practices related to anaemia prevention among adolescent girls. Strengthening KAP is essential for reducing anaemia prevalence and enhancing adolescent health, particularly in rural school settings.