Nutritional Anemia in Geriatric Patients in a Tertiary Care Centre (Code-T0338)

Introduction: Anemia in geriatric patients is a significant public health concern, contributing to 
increased morbidity, mortality, and reduced quality of life. Aging-related physiological changes, 
nutritional deficiencies, and chronic diseases contribute to the high prevalence of anemia among 
elderly individuals. This study aims to assess the prevalence, severity, and etiological factors of 
nutritional anemia among geriatric patients in a tertiary care setting. 
Aims and Objectives 
Aim: 
 To study nutritional anemia among subjects older than 60 years of age. 
Objective: 
 To study  the prevalence of nutritional anemia in the elderly aged 60 years and above 
 To evaluate the severity, clinicohematological patterns, and potential causes of nutritional 
anemia in elderly aged 60 and older. 
 To conduct an examination of the laboratory parameters associated with these individuals 
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 332 geriatric patients at a tertiary care 
hospital. Hematological parameters, iron studies, vitamin B12, folic acid levels, and comorbid 
conditions were assessed. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 26.0 to 
determine associations between anemia and various risk factors. 
Results: The study found a high prevalence of anemia (33.74%) among geriatric patients, with 
normocytic anemia being the most common type (49.7%). Vitamin B12 deficiency (20.78%) and 
folic acid deficiency (11.45%) were the leading causes, while iron deficiency anemia was less 
common (1.51%). Hyperhomocysteinemia was prevalent in 75.9% of cases. Significant 
associations were found between anemia and comorbid conditions like diabetes, hypertension, 
and chronic kidney disease. 
Conclusion: Nutritional deficiencies, particularly vitamin B12 and folic acid, play a crucial role 
in anemia among elderly patients. Routine screening, dietary interventions, and targeted 
supplementation are essential for managing anemia in geriatric populations effectively. 
Keywords: Nutritional anemia, geriatrics, vitamin B12 deficiency, folic acid deficiency, 
normocytic anemia, chronic disease.