title: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) perceptions and dietary iron intake among young women and pregnant women in Jordan.
abstract: To determine Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA) perceptions and iron dietary practices of Jordanian female students and pregnant women, a descriptive quantitative questionnaire was administered to 271 participants: 206 female students and 65 pregnant women. This pilot study found that most participants can identify foods containing iron, but lack appropriate iron intake, because of eating habits and finances; more than 50% report daily symptoms of IDA, including dizziness, fatigue, depression, headaches, and loss of concentration and memory. There are no statistically significant differences in IDA perceptions and iron-related dietary practices based on education, and relatively few based on where participants live, their available financial resources, or their position (pregnant women or young women). Culturally sensitive intervention research, which addresses application of IDA education principles, temporary supplementation, and adequate income for dietary modification and long-term iron supplementation to prevent IDA is warranted.
authors.affiliation: University of Jordan, Jordan.
authors.forename: Samiha S
authors.initials: SS
authors.lastname: Jarrah
authors.forename: Jehad O
authors.initials: JO
authors.lastname: Halabi
authors.forename: A Elaine
authors.initials: AE
authors.lastname: Bond
authors.forename: Joann
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Abegglen
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D018798:Anemia, Iron-Deficiency / Q000208:ethnology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D001294:Attitude to Health / Q000208:ethnology*; D001682:Biological Availability; D003906:Developing Countries; D004522:Educational Status; D002149:Energy Intake / Q000208:ethnology; D005247:Feeding Behavior / Q000208:ethnology*; D005260:Female; D005527:Food, Fortified / Q000706:statistics & numerical data / Q000600:supply & distribution; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D019266:Iron, Dietary / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000493:pharmacokinetics; D007597:Jordan; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D009749:Nutrition Surveys; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011247:Pregnancy; D011250:Pregnancy Complications, Hematologic / Q000208:ethnology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D037841:Pregnant People / Q000208:ethnology; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014930:Women / Q000193:education / Q000523:psychology*
chemical_list: D019266:Iron, Dietary