Outcome of Intensive Physical Exercise on the Prevalence of Iron-Deficiency Anemia in Saudi Military Trainees

BACKGROUND: Iron deficiency (ID) is considered a common health condition among military personnel, particularly soldiers during a period of high-intensity workouts. The causes, prevention, and treatment of ID anemia (IDA) remain the subject of ongoing and extensive research in various populations. AIM: This is the first research to study the outcome of 14 weeks of intensive physical exercise on the prevalence and factors associated with ID and IDA among Saudi military male trainees. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among n = 101 trainees who completed a questionnaire on sociodemographic data, dietary habits, current or past diagnoses of medical conditions, and physical activity. Two blood samples were collected from each participant to estimate (1) C-reactive protein and iron profile and (2) complete blood counts by the CellDYN Sapphire automated blood cell counter. Hemoglobin (Hb) fractions were identified and quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography using the TOSOH G8 analyzer to exclude hemoglobinopathy and thalassemia. RESULTS: The prevalence of ID, comprising both ID erythropoiesis and IDA among trainees, was found to be 65.3%. The occurrence of IDA was 5%, while ID erythropoiesis was detected among 60.4%. The prevalence of ID was statistically significantly higher among those drinking coffee during military training (P = 0.048). CONCLUSIONS: Further studies are recommended to validate this study’s findings by incorporating a larger sample and extending the duration of the training period and examine the mechanisms that explain the increased risk of ID during vigorous military training.