Hematological parameters associated with iron deficiency anemia in patients treated at Miguel H. Alcívar Hospital during 202

Abstract

Iron deficiency anemia remains one of the leading causes of anemia globally and represents a significant public health challenge. This study analyzed hematological parameters associated with iron deficiency anemia in patients treated at Miguel H. Alcívar Hospital during 2023. A descriptive, retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted involving a sample of 200 patients aged between 18 and 60 years. The findings indicated that 69.5% (n = 139) of patients had hemoglobin levels below the reference range. Additionally, 46.5% (n = 93) exhibited decreased Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), and 33.0% (n = 66) presented with reduced Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC). Serum iron levels were found to be low in 47.5% (n = 95) of patients, while ferritin concentrations were below normal in 45.5% (n = 91). Elevated transferrin levels were observed in 38.5% (n = 77), suggesting a compensatory response to increased iron demand. Age-stratified analysis revealed that the highest prevalence of iron deficiency anemia occurred in the 37–45 age group (26.0%, n = 52). Statistically significant associations were found between age and hemoglobin levels (p = 0.020), as well as with MCV, Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH), and MCHC (p < 0.001 for all). In conclusion, hematological parameters proved to be effective diagnostic indicators for iron deficiency anemia, reinforcing their clinical utility in the early detection, evaluation, and monitoring of this condition.