Anemia in working age: a retrospective-cohort study

Abstract

Anemia is the most common health problem in the world’s population, in particular, pregnant women and young children. For working-age, prevalence data is scanty. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of anemia among 533 apparently healthy working-age individuals (400 females and 133 males, age ranged 21-64 years). The recruited subjects were health staffs of two hospitals. Hematological data were reviewed from the 2010 annual health records. Anemia was defined by Hb < 12 g/dl for females, and < 13 g/dl for males. The anemia prevalence found in females and males was 27.8 % (95% CI = 23.4-32.4) and 9.0 % (95% CI = 4.7-15.2), respectively. Determination of hematological changes among anemic individuals from 2007-2010 revealed a decreasing trend in RBC, Hb and Hct. These findings indicate that anemia is still health burden even in apparently healthy population. Follow-up of hematological parameters is recommended to prevent severe anemia that might be occurred.