Correlation of BMI and MUAC with anemia among Sindh University Students, Jamshoro, Pakistan

Abstract

Anemia remains the problem of concern world wide, particularly in the developing countries. Anemia is prevalent in all age groups, being more common in female adolescents, and young adults. Number of studies suggests higher prevalence of anemia in University Going students, however, little is known about prevalence of anemia in university students of Pakistan. This cross sectional study was carried out at University of Sindh from January 2016 to December 2016. Total 391 students both male and female students participated in the study. Data was obtained through structured questionnaire. Hematological parameters were assessed using blood analyzer. Overall prevalence of anemia in both male and female students was 53%. The prevalence of anemia was higher in female (80.37%) students than in male students (33.77%). Further, we have found very strong correlation of BMI with MUAC both in male (r=0.83) and female students (r=0.86). We have also found the significant correlation of BMI (r = 0.38, P < 0.05) and MUAC (r = 0.14, < 0.05) with hemoglobin in female students. However, no significant correlation of BMI and MUAC with hemoglobin was observed in male students. In conclusion, higher prevalence of anemia was found in female students, and significant correlation of BMI and MUAC with hemoglobin was found in female students.