Factors associated with anemia among adolescents in junior high school

Abstract

Anemia remains a major public health problem among adolescents, particularly adolescent girls, due to its negative impact on physical growth, cognitive performance, and overall health status. This study aimed to analyze factors associated with anemia among adolescents at SMP K. Santo Gerardus Mayella Kalembuweri. A quantitative descriptive study with a cross-sectional design was conducted involving 80 adolescents from grades VII to IX selected using a total sampling technique. Data were collected using structured questionnaires to assess knowledge regarding anemia, dietary patterns, breakfast habits, menstrual characteristics, and adherence to iron tablet supplementation. Hemoglobin levels were measured using a digital hemoglobin testing device to determine anemia status. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests to examine the association between independent variables and anemia status. The findings showed that 52.5% of respondents were classified as anemic. Chi-square analysis revealed significant associations between anemia and knowledge regarding anemia (p = 0.012), dietary patterns (p = 0.001), menstrual characteristics (p = 0.020), breakfast habits (p = 0.008), and adherence to iron tablet supplementation (p < 0.001). Adolescents with poor dietary patterns, irregular breakfast habits, prolonged menstruation, low knowledge levels, and poor adherence to iron supplementation were more likely to experience anemia. Dietary patterns and adherence to iron tablet supplementation emerged as the most dominant factors associated with anemia occurrence. The study concludes that adolescent anemia is influenced by multiple interrelated behavioral and physiological factors. Comprehensive school-based interventions focusing on nutrition education, healthy dietary practices, menstrual health awareness, and regular iron supplementation are recommended to reduce anemia prevalence among adolescents.