Knowledge on iron deficiency and related health problems in a selected estate population in Kandy District, Sri Lanka

Abstract

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Iron deficiency is a common nutritional problem worldwide, particularly in developing countries. Here we aim to describe the knowledge on iron deficiency and related health problems and its associations, in a selected estate population in Kandy district of Sri Lanka. METHODS: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in Meegamuwatte Estate, Gampola, Kandy district during August 2017. All consenting adult estate workers and family members were recruited. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire which contained questions to assess socio-demographic characteristics and knowledge regarding iron deficiency and related health problems. Knowledge regarding iron deficiency was graded using 12 items (0-4:Poor; 5-8:Average; 9-12:Good) and knowledge regarding associated health problems was graded using 15 items (0-5:Poor; 6-1O:Average; 11-15:Good). Ethical approval was obtained from Ethics Committee of University of Kelaniya and data were analyzed using SPSS. RESULTS: Of the 314 participants, 187 (59.6%) were females and mean age was 4l(SD±ll.4) years. Majority (69.4%) were Tamils. Monthly family income was between Rs.10,000-25,000 in a majority (50.6%) and 247 (78.7%) were not educated beyond grade five. Knowledge on iron deficiency was poor among 190 (61.5%) and average in others. Major sources of information were family/neighbours (71.7%), newspapers (29.6%) and school (9.9%). Knowledge about related health problems was poor in 251(79.9%) and average in others. Education beyond grade 5 was associated with higher knowledge; 52.5% vs.12.5% (p<0.05). Age, gender and ethnicity were not significantly associated with knowledge.CONCLUSION: Knowledge on iron deficiency and related health problems among estate population was grossly inadequate. Higher level of education was associated with better knowledge.