Background : Anaemia is a major public health problem worldwide, affecting a quarter of the population. Iron deficiency is responsible for around 50% of anaemia cases worldwide. Cameroon is one of the countries most affected by this problem. Children under 5, pregnant women, women of childbearing age and the elderly are the most affected. The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of iron deficiency, anaemia and iron deficiency anaemia and its level of severity according to socio-demographic parameters in the Department of Lékié. The aim is to provide up-to-date, detailed data that will enable us to better guide treatment.

Methods : A one-month cross-sectional study was carried out in the Lékié Department in collaboration with local health centres in both urban and rural areas. The study sample consisted of 361 participants of all ages and sexes. One or two drops of blood were collected in order to perform the anaemia test using a urit-12 haemoglobin device, and a questionnaire was developed to obtain information on participants' socio-demographic status. The assay of certain markers carried out on blood samples collected from the participants provided further information on anaemia.

Results: The prevalence of anaemia in the study population was 54.85%, higher than that of iron deficiency anaemia and martial deficiency. Mild anaemia was more prevalent, while severe anaemia was less prevalent. Of the many known forms of anaemia, anaemia due to martial deficiency was the most predominant in the study population (57.6%).

Conclusion : Anaemia in the Department of Lékié has passed the 40% mark, and is therefore, according to the WHO, a serious public health problem. This locality therefore requires special attention, but above all urgent intervention lest the situation deteriorate further.

Guy NOAH