Prevalence and Risk Factors of Anemia in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: A Case-Control Study

Introduction Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis may induce anemia, ranging from 25% to 75% depending on the study population and diagnostic criteria. It might negatively impact their health and quality of life. Objectives The aim of this work is to study the effectiveness and safety of treatments for anemia in patients with IBD. Methodology This case-control study compared patients with IBD who have anemia (cases; n=60) with patients who have IBD but do not have anemia (controls; n=60) from June 2019 to August 2021 in Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, Pakistan. Data were collected through interviews, from patients` medical records, and from lab test reports. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, Version 23.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Results Cases had a greater mean age (45.2 years) than controls (42.8 years). Cases included 60% females and controls 45%. Also, cases earned less (p = 0.019). Anemic patients (group 1) had lower mean hemoglobin (10.2 g/dL) and iron than non-anemic controls (group 2) (p = 0.042 and 0.009, respectively). Anemia increased Crohn's Disease Activity Index and Mayo Score. Group 1 has iron deficiency anemia, whereas group 2 has chronic disease. Group 1 reacts rapidly, but gastrointestinal side effects, allergies, and iron overload are more prevalent. Conclusion IBD patients exhibited low hemoglobin and iron, suggesting anemia. Anemia increased disease activity, but not statistically. IBD patients need iron and anemia treatment. Comparing groups demonstrates differences in anemia types, iron replacement history, treatment response, and bad effects, proposing targeted iron supplementation for deficiency anemia and managing chronic illness factors for chronic disease anemia. IBD anemia treatment involves individualization.