Graduate Program

Family and Consumer Studies

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Semester of Degree Completion

2007

Thesis Director

Karla Kennedy-Hagan

Thesis Committee Member

Melanie Burns

Thesis Committee Member

Kathleen O'Rourke

Abstract

Iron deficiency is a serious problem affecting more than three million people nally and almost two billion worldwide. This study was performed to determine the knowledge of iron, iron deficiency, and iron deficiency anemia among college-aged women. A questionnaire consisting of 21 knowledge questions in addition to seven demographic questions was answered by 420 college-aged females at a Midwestern university. Overall, 85% of the women (n=357) in this group lacked sufficient knowledge about the subject as determined by a total knowledge score of less than fifteen. Greater iron knowledge was found in older, white students, those who consumed supplements, and who had taken or were enrolled in a nutrition class. There was no correlation based on vegetarian status, sexual activity, or pregnancy intention. This study shows the need for additional research and increased nutrition educational efforts to properly educate the population and prevent the iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia.

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