Incidence and causes of iron deficiency among people of small ethnic groups of the north (Khanty and mansi) residing in urban areas and those preserving their traditional lifestyle (residing in camps and villages): Experience of using iron supplements

Objective. To study the health status of women from among the small-numbered indigenous peoples of the North (SIPN), including those leading a traditional way of life in camps and rural areas. Patients and methods. Using continuous sampling method, a prospective analysis of complaints, anamnestic, anthropometric, and laboratory data was carried out in female patients from among SIPN (Khanty and Mansi) living in rural areas and camps, as well as in the city of Khanty-Mansiysk. The comparison group consisted of women from the migrant population (Russians) living in the city of Khanty-Mansiysk. Results. The greatest number of health disorders was found among SIPN who migrated to the city in the first and second generations. Overweight was observed in 46.2% of women in this cohort, obesity was diagnosed in 19.2% of women. Heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding was the main cause of iron deficiency (11.5%) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) (30.8%) in the group of SIPN living in the city. IDA of mild severity occurred in 19.2% of patients, and of moderate severity – in 11.5%. Conclusion. Iron metabolism disorders were observed in 42.3% of women from among SIPN who migrated to the city. Iron(III)-hydroxide polymaltose complex (Ferrum Lek®), which is used in the complex therapy of gynecological diseases (menstrual disorders) and gastrointestinal diseases, has high efficiency, good tolerability and the least number of adverse effects. This makes it possible to recommend it for the treatment of IDA and for the replenishment of iron stores in women in both SIPN and newcomer populations. © 2021, Dynasty Publishing House. All rights reserved.