Community Awareness of Helicobacter pylori and Intestinal Parasitic Infections and Their Association with Iron Deficiency Anemia: A Cross-Sectional Study”
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54361/LJMR.20.2.37Keywords:
Iron deficiency anemia, Helicobacter pylori, Intestinal parasites, Awareness, Cross-sectional studyAbstract
Background: Iron deficiency anemia is a prevalent public health problem, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Chronic gastrointestinal infections, including Helicobacter pylori and intestinal parasitic infections, may contribute to iron deficiency through impaired absorption and chronic inflammation. Objective: To assess community awareness of Helicobacter pylori and intestinal parasitic infections and their perceived association with iron deficiency anemia. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 adults using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. Data included sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge of gastrointestinal infections, and history of iron deficiency. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Awareness of H. pylori and intestinal parasitic infections was reported by 67.3% and 65.3% of participants, respectively. A history of anemia was reported by 39.3%. Significant associations were found between anemia history and awareness of H. pylori (p = 0.003) and intestinal parasites (p = 0.018). Conclusion: Community awareness of infection-related iron deficiency anemia was moderate. Strengthening public education and screening programs may help reduce the burden of iron deficiency anemia.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Elham Mohammed SAlmurabet, Ahmed Aboulqasim Alwagiah, Rabab Almabrouk Salih, Ghadah Emhemed Algeblaue, Nasrien Ali Elfarrah (Author)
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