The effect of educational intervention based on the theory of planned behavior to prevent iron deficiency anemia in female high school students.

BACKGROUND

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a prevalent health issue globally, with numerous research studies indicating that teenage girls in impoverished nations have a high incidence of this condition. Thus, the goal of this study is to figure out how education grounded in the theory of planned behavior (TPB) can prevent IDA in female high school students.

METHODS

In Shiraz, Iran, 160 girls between the ages of 14 and 19 participated in this quasi-experimental study. Random sampling was used, and participants were randomly allocated to two experimental and control groups (each having 80 members). A questionnaire formed on the TPB was used as the data-collecting method, and both groups completed it pre- and four months post intervention. The educational program for the experimental group had six 50-60 min sessions that were conducted in schools using three different teaching styles (speaking, question and answer, and group discussion). After putting the data into the SPSS-24 statistical program, paired t, independent t, and chi-square tests were used to look at them.

RESULTS

Before the intervention, there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of attitude (P = 0.213), subjective norms (P = 0.451), perceived behavioral control (P = 0.216), behavioral intention (P = 0.212), or behavior (P = 0.547). However, following the intervention, there was a significant difference between the two groups in terms of the mentioned constructs (P = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

In the present study, education based on the TPB could successfully affect the nutritional behaviors for preventing IDA in girls aged 14-19 years. Probably, the results of this research can be used for students and their families and provide information for designing and planning interventions to prevent this disease among students at the disposal of subordinate organizations such as education, schools, universities of medical sciences, health centers, and nutrition clinics.