AJ Journal of Medical Sciences

Abstract

Introduction: Anemia is a medical condition characterized by low red blood cell counts, which lead to hypoxia, or insufficient oxygenation of body tissue. Anemia is caused by an inadequate Iron supply in the body. Raising hemoglobin levels is essential in preventing anemia. Anemia is a major nutritional problem in India. The prevalence of anemia is higher among developing nations, because of low socioeconomic status and lack of access to the healthcare services. A study was aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of dietary interventions on Iron deficiency anemia among selected 1^st year B.Sc. Nursing and GNM students in Mangaluru. Method s: An evaluative approach with one- group pre test – post test design was used for the study. Permission was obtained from the concerned authority for conducting the study. The purposive sampling technique was used to draw 30 female nursing students. On day 1, Students were assessed for signs and symptoms of Iron deficiency anemia using signs and symptoms checklist and classified as mild, moderate, and severe anemia. Level of anemia was assessed by checking the hemoglobin percentage using hemoglobinometer. The samples who were having Hb percentage below 12gm/dl were administered dietary intervention which included rice flake balls (125 gms) and a gooseberry (10 gms) for 30 days and on day 31^st, samples were checked for Hb percentage and signs and symptoms of Iron deficiency anemia. Result: In the pre test mean Hb percentage was 10.620 ± 0.875 and in the post test mean Hb percentage was 12.003 ± 1.046 Hb values were increased in the post test. In the pretest majority 70% of them had mild anemia and 30% had moderate anemia. Whereas in the post test all had mild anemia. The pre test mean signs and symptoms score was 4.1 ± 0.9 and the post test mean signs and symptoms score was 1.86 ± 0.68. This shows the post test mean signs and symptoms score was reduced from the pre test. Interpretation: The finding of the study proved that the dietary intervention was an effective measure to improve the hemoglobin level of nursing students. Conclusion: It was concluded that dietary intervention of rice flakes balls and gooseberry administered may be effective in improving iron status of nursing students to prevent Iron deficiency anemia.