EFFECT OF DIETARY CONSULTATION ON IMPROVEMENT OF HB LEVELS IN PATIENTS PRESENTING WITH IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA IN FAMILY MEDICINE OPD IN MH

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the impact of individualized dietary consultation on hemoglobin (Hb) levels in patients with iron deficiency anemia (IDA) attending the Family Medicine outpatient department at Pakistan Emirates Military Hospital (EMH), Rawalpindi. Study Design: A prospective interventional quasi-experimental study with dietary counselling. Place & Duration: Pakistan Emirates Military Hospital, Rawalpindi. Duration: six months after topic approval, from June, 7 2023 to November, 7 2023. Methodology: Adult patients diagnosed with IDA (Hb < 12 g/dL women; < 13 g/dL men) were recruited. Baseline Hb, serum ferritin, dietary recall and anthropometrics recorded. Each received tailored dietary counselling emphasizing iron-rich foods, enhancement by vitamin C, avoidance of inhibitors, meal planning and followup monthly for six months. Hb measured at baseline, 3 and 6 months. Results: At 6 months mean Hb rose from 10.1 g/dL to 12.4 g/dL (p < 0.001). Serum ferritin improved by ~30%. Adherence to counselling correlated strongly with Hb rise. Four tables present demographic breakdown, Hb trends, dietary adherence categories, and serum ferritin changes. A pie-chart shows adherence proportions; a bar graph illustrates Hb improvement across adherence strata. Conclusion: Dietary consultation significantly improved Hb and iron stores in IDA patients in a family medicine setting. This approach is lowcost, feasible, and enhances outcomes when combined with standard medical treatment..

Key Words: Iron deficiency anemia, dietary consultation, hemoglobin, ferritin, family medicine, Pakistan