Abstract

Objective: To determine prevalence and factors contributing to anemia among female hostelites and day-scholars of Islamabad Medical and Dental College (IMDC), and to elucidate its association with BMI, diet intake and physical activity.

Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted at IMDC from May to September 2017. A total of 126 students were randomly selected and were divided into two groups; hostelites and day-scholars (age 18-24 years) with 63 in each group. Their BMI and Hb levels, physical activity, supplements and diet and menstruation details were recorded. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 23.0

Results: Out of 126 students, 50% were found to be anemic while 21.4% were underweight and 15.1% overweight. Significant results obtained for association of BMI with the status of students and intake of cereals.
Conclusion: Hb and BMI association was found to be non-significant. Hostelites were found to be severely anemic indicating poor diet while day-scholars had comparatively better Hb and BMI association, indicating better health and diet levels.

Key words: Age, BMI, diet plan, Hb concentration, menstrual pattern, physical activity, supplements.