Effective communication methods in preventing anaemia in adolescents: A systematic review.

Abstract

The incidence of anaemia in adolescents has increased. Apart from increasing nutritional requirements, behavioral changes are needed to prevent anaemia. This systematic review aims to review effective communication methods to prevent anaemia in adolescents. Articles were searched from five electronic databases such as Science-direct, PubMed, Sage, ProQuest, and Springer. An online search for articles was carried out in August 2023 provided that articles were published from 2018 to 2023. The PICOS framework was used as a guide to obtain searchable keywords. Several keywords used for literature searching include "communication methods to prevent anaemia" and "anaemia prevention in adolescence". Following the application of several inclusion and exclusion criteria, including the use of PRISMA flowchart as a guide, a total of 10 articles were shortlisted for the final analysis. The review showed that well-planned communication strategies with communication in integrated health care system is an effective method to promote behavioral changes needed to reduce anaemia in adolescents through dietary/nutritional modifications such as an increase in iron folic acid use among them. This occurs through an increase in knowledge and improved attitude towards the prevention of anaemia among adolescents.