Anaemia, Folate, Zinc and Copper Deficiencies Among Adolescent Schoolgirls in Eastern Sudan

Anaemia is a widespread problem especially in the tropics. Among adolescent girls, it has negative consequences on growth, school performance, morbidity and reproductive performance. A cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of anaemia, iron, folate, zinc and copper deficiencies amongst adolescent schoolgirls in New Halfa, eastern Sudan, and to examine the relationship of these micronutrients with haemoglobin (Hb) levels. Out of 187 adolescent schoolgirls, 181 (96.8%) had anaemia (Hb?r?=?0.161, P?=?0.03) and with copper levels (r?=?0.151, P?=?0.03). Thus, interventions are required to prevent and control anaemia in this setting. Further research is needed.