Association of Hematological Parameters with Obesity‑ Induced Inflammation Among Young Females in Ahvaz, South‑West of Iran

Iron deficiency is prevalent in overweight and obese individuals and may be induced by adiposity‑related inflammation that affect iron metabolism.

The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between hematological parameters and obesity‑induced inflammation among young females.

A total of 170 young women (aged between 18‑35 years) participated in this cross‑sectional study. Obesity was assessed by BMI (body mass index), WHR (waist to hip ratio), and body fat percentage. Inflammatory and hematological parameters including hs‑CRP (high‑sensitivity C‑reactive protein), serum Fe, hemoglobin, ferritin, transferrin, TIBC (total iron binding capacity) were measured. Dietary intakes of some nutrients (total iron, proteins, calcium, and vitamin C) were assessed according to BMI, WHR and fat mass categories.

Serum iron were negatively correlated with BMI (P = 0.045, r = −0.154) and hs‑CRP (P = 0.032, r = −0.165). Hemoglobin were also negatively correlated with BMI (P = 0.043, r = −0.155). A significant correlation was also shown between WHR with transferrin (P = 0.034, r = 0.163) and TIBC levels (P = 0.035, r = 0.162), hs‑CRP was positively correlated with BMI (P = 0.014, r = 0.183), WHR (P = 0.009, r = 0.202) and body fat percentage (P = 0.037, r = 0.353). Dietary intakes did not differ significantly among BMI, WHR and fat mass categories (P > 0.05).

Obesity‑induced inflammation, regardless of dietary intake of iron, can lead to iron deficiency. Therefore, weight control, especially in obese subjects is necessary to prevent iron deficiency and anemia.