INTRODUCTION
1.1 ADOLESCENT ANEMIA-NEED FOR CONCERN. Adolescence is one of the most rapid stages of human development. Adolescence is a period of human life with specific health and developmental needs and rights. It is also a period to develop knowledge and skills, learn to manage emotions and relationships, and acquire attributes and abilities that will be more important for enjoying the adolescent years and executing adult roles. Adolescence is a transitional period between childhood and adulthood marked by profound physical, physiological, sexual and psychological changes. The existence of certain health problems during adolescence, includes substance use disorders, mental disorders, anaemia and injuries reflects both the biological
Iron deficiency anaemia occurs at all age of the life cycle, but is more prevalent in pregnant women and young children. Adolescent’s girls are specifically vulnerable to iron deficiency. The highest prevalence is between the ages of 12-15 years when demand are at a peak. In South-East Asia Region, except Thailand, more than 25% of adolescent girls are reported to be anaemic; in few countries the prevalence is as high as 50%.The World Health Report (2002) stated iron deficiency anaemia was one of the 10 most serious risks in countries with high infant mortality accompanied by high adult mortality and reported that measures to address iron deficiency anaemia are the most cost effective public health
Anaemia is associated with prolong fatigue, decreased cognitive function, and also affected by activities daily living. Iron deficiency anaemia Patients of unknown etiology are frequently referred to a gastroenterologist because in the majority of cases the condition has a gastrointestinal origin. Proper management improves quality of life, alleviates the symptoms of iron deficiency, and reduces the need for blood transfusions. Iron deficiency anaemia Treatment includes oral and intravenous iron therapy; but, the efficacy of oral iron is limited in certain gastrointestinal conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease and autoimmune gastritis. This facilitates the identification and treatment of the underlying condition and avoids the unnecessary use of invasive methods and their associated risks. (Jimenez et al