Obesity as an Emerging Risk Factor for Anemia

Background: Obesity and anemia are important health challenges worldwide particularly in females and children. These conditions are prevalent in most developing countries and have devastating effect on mental as well as physical health. Evidences are available showing the association between these two conditions. The aim of the study was to determine the frequency of anemia among obese subjects and to find association between BMI and hemoglobin. Methodology: A cross-sectional comparative study comprised of 216 subjects was conducted at Aziz Fatimah Medical and Dental College, Faisalabad from April 2018 to September 2018. After approval from ethical committee, all the relevant data including gender, age, height and weight were recorded on a predesigned proforma. BMI was calculated with help of a formula height in meter2/weight in kg. Hemoglobin (Hb) levels were obtained by Sahli's method. Data was analyzed by using SPSS 21.0. Hemoglobin levels were compared between obese and non-obese subjects by Mann whitney test. Percentages were compared by X2. Regression analysis was used to find association between BMI and Hb. Results: Study comprised of 216 subjects of mean age 19.9±0.88. Of total studied population 38 .0% were obese having BMI ? 25kg/m2. Significant differences were observed in the mean BMI (P value= 0.001*) and Hb (P value= 0.021*) between the studied groups. Hemoglobin levels were lower in obese individuals than non-obese. (10.4 Vs 12.18) Regression analysis reveals significant negative association of BMI with Hb (?, - 1.036, P value =0.000*). Conclusion: Anemia is more prevalent among obese individuals than non-obese subjects.