ANALYSIS OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DIETARY PATTERNS, NUTRITIONAL STATUS, AND MENSTRUAL CYCLE WITH THE INCIDENCE OF ANEMIA AMONG FEMALE ADOLESCENTS AT SMA STATE 3 KOTA GORONTALO SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

Abstract

Anemia is characterized by a decrease in hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit, and red blood cell count below normal levels. The prevalence of anemia in Indonesia remains relatively high. According to the 2018 Basic Health Research (Riskesdas) data, the prevalence of anemia among adolescents is 32%, meaning 3-4 out of 10 adolescents suffer from anemia. Female adolescents are more at risk of anemia compared to males due to monthly menstruation, frequent attempts to maintain appearance, and dieting to achieve an ideal body shape, which leads to reduced food intake. Another issue among adolescents is that almost 50% skip breakfast. These factors affect hemoglobin levels in the body and trigger anemia. This study aims to analyze the relationship between dietary patterns, nutritional status, and menstrual cycle with the incidence of anemia among female adolescents at SMA Negeri 3 Kota Gorontalo Senior High School. This research was conducted using an analytical study with a cross-sectional design. The sample consisted of female adolescents at the mentioned school. The instrument employed a questionnaire. The results showed a significant relationship between dietary patterns (p-value = 0.015), nutritional status (p-value = 0.002), and menstrual cycle (p-value = 0.002) with the incidence of anemia. In conclusion, there is a relationship between dietary patterns, nutritional status, and menstrual cycle with the incidence of anemia. Female adolescents are advised to increase their intake of iron-rich foods to boost hemoglobin levels and prevent anemia. The fulfillment of essential nutrients, such as vitamin C from fruits and vegetables, also needs to be considered to support blood formation.