Objectives
A nationally representative cross-sectional survey that included sociodemographic and biochemical information from 9042 non-pregnant WRA was used to examine the prevalence of anemia (Hb<12 g/dl ) and deficiencies of iron (Fe<15 µg/L ), zinc (Zn<70 µg/dL ), folate(<151 mg/ml) and vitamin B12 (<150 pmol/L). Associations were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression models adjusting for confounders and complex survey design.
Methods
A nationally representative cross-sectional survey that included sociodemographic and biochemical information from 9042 non-pregnant WRA was used to examine the prevalence of anemia (Hb<12 g/dl ) and deficiencies of iron (Fe<15 µg/L ), zinc (Zn<70 µg/dL ), folate(<151 mg/ml) and vitamin B12 (<150 pmol/L). Associations were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression models adjusting for confounders and complex survey design.
Results
Anemia was present in 15% of Ecuadorian WRA. Area of residence (OR=0.79, 95% CI=0.64-0.97, rural vs. urban) low ferritin (OR=13.4, 95% CI=10.7-16.9, P=<0.001) and chronic inflammation (OR=2.92, 95% CI=2.02-4.22) were predictors of anemia. The prevalence of iron and zinc deficiency was 14.1% and 56.1%, respectively. Being overweight was protective of iron deficiency (OR=0.67, 95% CI=0.55-0.82) whereas living in the rural area was protective of zinc deficiency (OR 0.73, CI 0.61-0.86). Low serum vitamin B12 was found in 4.5% of women and folate deficiencies were infrequent (0.06%).
Conclusions
Anemia in WRA in Ecuador remain a public health concern. The prevalence of zinc deficiency found is very high. More studies are required to determine the causes and implications of zinc deficiency among this population. Folate and vitamin B12 deficiencies are not prevalent in WRA of Ecuador.
