Preliminary Study on Nutritional Status and Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) Levels in Adolescents

Abstract

Background: Adolescent girls are at high risk of iron deficiency due to rapid growth, hormonal changes, and menstrual blood loss during puberty. These physiological demands increase the need for iron, making this group especially vulnerable to anemia. Hemoglobin testing is often used to detect anemia. However, it may not detect iron deficiency in its early stages. Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) is a useful biochemical marker of iron metabolism and can indicate early iron depletion. Objective: This study aimed to assess the nutritional status of adolescent girls, evaluate TIBC as an early indicator of iron deficiency, and explore the association between Body Mass Index (BMI) and TIBC. Methods: A descriptive-correlational study was conducted involving 21 adolescent girls from SMK Baitul Hikmah in Jember, Indonesia, selected through purposive sampling. Nutritional status was assessed using BMI and dietary intake via the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Hemoglobin and TIBC levels were measured through blood tests. Data were analysed using Fisher's Exact Test, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The majority of participants were underweight (66.7%) and had poor dietary intake (47.6%). Anemia was found in 42.9% of participants, and 28.5% had abnormal TIBC levels. A significant association was found between BMI and TIBC. Conclusion: This preliminary study highlights the potential association between poor nutritional status and elevated TIBC in adolescent girls. The findings emphasize the need for regular nutritional monitoring and early screening using biochemical markers to prevent iron-deficiency anaemia. Limitations: This study has several limitations, including a small sample size and the use of purposive sampling, which may limit the generalizability of the findings. Additionally, the cross-sectional design restricts the ability to establish causal relationships between BMI and TIBC levels. Dietary assessment using FFQ may also be subject to recall bias. Implications: Despite these limitations, the findings suggest that TIBC may serve as a valuable early indicator of iron deficiency among adolescent girls. Integrating nutritional assessment and biochemical screening into school-based health programs could enhance early detection and prevention strategies. Further studies with larger sample sizes and longitudinal designs are recommended to strengthen the evidence base and inform public health interventions.