When studying iron deficiency in women, the authors found a significant correlation between ferritin levels and total blood protein and patients’ adherence to a healthy lifestyle.

OBJECTIVE

To develop a prevention strategy based on a cognitive-behavioral component considering the correlation of lifestyle and psychological well-being of females with iron deficiency.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The followed-up patients were divided into two groups (n=394 and n=373) depending on the presence or absence of iron deficiency based on hemoglobin levels. The patients were surveyed on health and social aspects and underwent anxiety testing.

RESULTS

Factors positively affecting women’s psychological health and lifestyle include normal blood total protein (p<0.001), the inclusion of meat (p<0.001), beef liver (p<0.001), and fiber-containing foods (p<0.001) in the diet. Situational anxiety (p=0.007), divorce (p=0.006), daily carbohydrate intake (p=0.021), difficulty falling asleep (p<0.001), and disruptive sleep patterns (p=0.001), among others, were found to correlate with the decrease in total protein.

CONCLUSION

As a result of this study, the first model of iron deficiency development based on cognitive-behavioral factors was proposed, which provided the basis for the development of a relevant preventive program.