Factors Associated with Compliance to Iron Tablet Consumption Among Schoolgirls in Kudus, Indonesia

Abstract

Introduction: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) among adolescent girls is often linked to poor adherence to iron tablet supplementation.  Knowledge, attitudes, family involvement, school support, and encouragement from health workers are among the main factors that influence compliance with iron supplementation. Understanding these determinants is essential to improve adherence and prevent anemia among this population

Objective: To determine the factors associated with compliance of iron (Fe) tablet consumption among female adolescents at Madrasah Aliyah NU Banat, Kudus, Indonesia.

Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional study design. A total of 64 respondents were recruited using purposive sampling among female adolescents from grades 10-12 at Madrasah Aliyah NU Banat, Kudus. Structured and validated questionnaires were used to identify knowledge, attitude, family, school, and health worker support status. Data were analyzed using chi-square and Fisher’s Exact test.

Results: Statistically significant associations were found between compliance and the following factors: knowledge (p ≤ 0.001), attitudes (p ≤ 0.001), family support (p = 0.005), school support (p ≤ 0.001), and health worker support (p = 0.002). The odds ratios (OR) indicated that better knowledge, positive attitudes, and strong support from family, school, and health workers significantly increased compliance with Fe tablet consumption.

Conclusion: Good knowledge, attitudes, family support, school support, and health worker support are significantly associated with compliance to Fe tablet consumption. Strengthening these factors can improve adherence to iron supplementation and help prevent anemia in adolescent girls.