Prevalence and Determinants of Anaemia amongst Women of Reproductive Age at a facility in Srinagar, India: A Community-based Descriptive Study

Abstract Introduction: Anaemia is a major public health concern amongst women of reproductive age, particularly in low-resource settings. Nutritional anaemia is the most common form of anaemia, predominantly iron-deficiency anaemia. Methods: A descriptive study was carried out in 300 women aged 15–49 years. Participants were selected using purposive sampling. Haemoglobin (Hb) levels were measured using a portable digital haemoglobinometer (TrueHb). Results: The prevalence of anaemia in the study population was 58%. Amongst the anaemic women, 25% had mild anaemia, 28% moderate and 5% severe anaemia. Higher prevalence was noted amongst women aged 15–29 years and those with more than two children. Significant associations were found between anaemia and poor dietary intake, history of heavy menstruation and recent childbirth ( P < 0.05). Conclusion: Anaemia is highly prevalent amongst women of reproductive age in the Subcenter Abidal area, highlighting the need for targeted nutritional and public health interventions.