The Correlation of Body Mass Index and Menstrual Patterns with the Incidence of Anemia in Adolescent Girls

Introduction: Anemia in adolescent girls is a significant health problem. Adolescent girls are at a higher risk of anemia due to inadequate nutritional intake and excessive blood loss caused by abnormal menstrual patterns. This study aimed to examine the associations among body mass index (BMI), menstrual patterns, and anemia incidence in adolescent girls. Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional design with a purposive sample of 125 respondents. The independent variables were BMI and menstrual patterns, while the dependent variable was anemia. The study was conducted at a public high school in Surabaya, a city with a high prevalence of anemia among adolescents, in December 2024. Data were collected through measurements of body weight and height, a menstrual pattern questionnaire, and hemoglobin level examinations using a digital Hb meter. Data analysis was performed using Spearman’s Rho test with a significance level of <0.05. Results: BMI was significantly correlated with anemia incidence among adolescent girls (p < 0.001; r = 0.481). A significant correlation was also found between menstrual patterns and anemia incidence (p < 0.001; r =-0.411). Conclusion: BMI and menstrual patterns have a significant correlation with the incidence of anemia in adolescent girls. These findings suggest that healthcare professionals should consider both BMI and menstrual patterns when assessing the risk of anemia in adolescent girls. Adolescent girls with low BMI often have poor dietary habits and misconceptions about proper nutrition in adolescent girls. Abnormal menstrual patterns, such as irregular cycles and prolonged bleeding, can lead to increased blood loss, contributing to anemia. Understanding these correlations can aid early detection and prevention of anemia in adolescent girls.