Prevalence of Iron Deficiency Among Young Women in Misurata, Libya: The Role of Menstruation and Dietary Habits

• Abdalla Rfieda

  Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, Misurata University, Libya.

  Author

• Omaima Ben Krayem

  Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, Misurata University, Libya.

  Author

• Baraah Barwal

  Faculty of Pharmacy, Misurata University, Libya.

  Author

• Raghda Al-muhaishi

  Faculty of Pharmacy, Misurata University, Libya.

  Author

• Sondos Erfida

  Faculty of Pharmacy, Misurata University, Libya.

  Author

Iron deficiency is a major global health concern, with young women being the most vulnerable population. While iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is clinically apparent, iron depletion without anemia- marked with low ferritin- is frequently overlooked despite its impact on cognitive and physical health. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of low ferritin levels among young women in Misurata, Libya, and to investigate the impact of menstruation and dietary habits as contributing factors. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 103 female and 25 male medical students (aged 18–27 years). Serum ferritin, haemoglobin (Hb), and C-reactive protein (CRP) were measured to assess iron status. Additionally, dietary patterns were assessed via a structured dietary scoring system. A high prevalence of iron depletion was observed among females, with 52.4% exhibiting confirmed iron deficiency (ferritin < 15 μg/L) and only 5.8% maintaining sufficient iron stores (> 50 μg/L). Notably, among non-anaemic female participants (Hb≥ 12g/dl), 40% had ferritin levels below 15 μg/L, and 38% fell within the insufficient range of 15–30 μg/L. A highly significant gender difference was found (p < 0.0001), as no male participants had ferritin levels below 15 μg/L, and 76% had sufficient stores. Although dietary scores were significantly lower in females compared to males (p < 0.0001), menstruation was identified as the primary factor responsible for iron depletion, with poor dietary habits serving as a reinforcing cause. Subclinical iron deficiency is widespread among young females in Misurata, even in the absence of anaemia. This prevalence suggests a hidden risk for future complications such as IDA, particularly when biological requirements increase. The study emphasizes the role of menstruation as the major cause of iron deficiency, followed by poor dietary habits. The study suggests that the current clinical threshold may need to be increased to a higher target (e.g., 50 μg/L) to ensure sufficient iron stores and avoid late-stage anemia. 

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