Prevalence, knowledge and selected associated factors of anaemia among non-pregnant females of reproductive age in a tea estate community in Hantana, Kandy district, Sri Lanka.

Anaemia among non-pregnant females of reproductive age remains a common public health problem globally, as well as in Sri Lanka. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of anaemia, asses the knowledge and the associated factors of anaemia among non-pregnant females of reproductive age in a tea estate community in Hantana, Kandy district, Sri Lanka. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 236 randomly selected non-pregnant females of reproductive age within the tea estate community belonging to two MOH (Medical Officers of Health) areas. The proportion of anaemia was determined by measuring haemoglobin (Hb) concentration using Mindray five-part automated blood analyser. The cut-off value to determine anaemia was set at 12.0 g/dL and respondents were categorized into three anaemia categories based on their Hb value. The common risk factors and knowledge regarding anaemia were assessed using a pre-tested interviewer administered questionnaire. Data was analysed with SPSS version 25. Chi-square test was used to conduct a bi-variate analysis. Prevalence of anaemia was 33.1%, among whom 53.8% had mild anaemia, 39.7% had moderate anaemia and 6.4% had severe anaemia. Anaemia was significantly associated with being employed, delivery of a baby within the past 4 years, advancing age, low income (less than 20,000 LKR) and prolonged menstrual bleeding for more than 3 days. Majority (58.5%) had poor knowledge regarding anaemia with a mean score of 5.69 (SD ± 2.42) out of 12. Since anaemia is a multifactorial condition it requires a combination of interventions such as health education and promotion activities. This study aids in assessing the prevalence of anaemia among estate workers identify the significant factors contributing to anaemia. AJBR