THE PREVALENCE OF IRON DEFICIENCY IN ELDERLY PERSONS PRESENTING AT AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL ZARIA GOPD, KADUNA STATE

Abstract

Introduction/Background: Iron deficiency is one of the commonest causes of anaemia among
the elderly. In this group of people, it is a poor prognostic marker of disease conditions. Iron
deficiency can be aggravated by various lifestyles, socioeconomic conditions and some disease
conditions.
Aim and Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess iron status among elderly persons. The
study also determined the prevalence and likely causes of iron deficiency, and the relationship
between socioeconomic status and iron deficiency.
Materials and Method: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional non-interventional study. A total
of 80 elderly (≥60years) participants were recruited into the study. Structured questionnaires were
administered to consenting participants. Physical examination, full blood count, red cell indices,
serum ferritin, serum transferrin receptor, urine and stool microscopy and stool for occult blood
test were carried out.
Results: Females constituted the majority of the participants 43 (53.75%) and males were 37
(46.25%). The age of the participants ranged from 60-86years, with a mean age of 66.09±7.121
years. The mean Hb, WBC, Platelet count, Reticulocyte count, MCV, MCH, MCHC, RDW,
Serum Ferritin and Serum Transferrin Receptor were; 12.00±1.37g/dl, 6.30±3.07×109 /L,
252.24±89.19×109/L, 2.88±1.49%, 78.65±7.50fL, 27.36±2.32pg, 34.33±2.71g/L, 15.16±1.57%,
149.69±114.07µg/L and 82.31±47.03nmol/L respectively.

Conclusion: This study has shown that the prevalence of iron deficiency is high among elderly
persons attending the GOPD in ABUTH, Zaria.

THE PREVALENCE OF IRON DEFICIENCY IN ELDERLY PERSONS PRESENTING AT AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL ZARIA GOPD, KADUNA STATE