Coastal Lives, Nutritional Struggles: Anemia and Poor Diet Quality among Adolescent Girls in Indonesia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.6000/Keywords:
Adolescent, Female, Anemia, Diet, Residence CharacteristicsAbstract
Objectives: Adolescent girls living in coastal areas are nutritionally vulnerable due to limited access to diverse
and nutrient-rich foods. This study aimed to provide an overview of the nutritional profile and potential vulnerability to
anemia among adolescent girls in this area.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in January 2025 among 159 adolescent girls aged 11-18
years in the coastal area of Galesong Selatan, Takalar Regency, Indonesia. Data on hemoglobin levels and dietary
intake were collected using Hemocue 301 and two non-consecutive 24-hour recalls. Diet quality was assessed using the
Diet Quality Index for Adolescents (DQI-A) adapted to Indonesian guidelines, and all data were analyzed descriptively.
Results: The prevalence of anemia among adolescent girls was 42.8%, with 23.9% classified as mild and 18.9% as
moderate anemia. The median DQI-A score was 40.33, with subcomponent scores of DQ: 5.95, DD: 71.43, and DE:
40.14, indicating overall poor diet quality. Most participants had moderate dietary diversity (60.4%) and low dietary
equilibrium, with 73.0% consuming less than half of the recommended daily nutrient intake (<50% RDA). The average
intake of energy, protein, iron, folate, and vitamin C was markedly below the RDA, showing substantial nutrient
inadequacy. Although weekend intake was slightly higher, nutrient levels remained insufficient to meet daily
requirements.
Conclusions: Improving adolescent diet quality through balanced, micronutrient-rich food intake and adherence to ironfolic acid supplementation is essential not only to prevent anemia but also to strengthen vascular health and reduce
future risks of congenital vascular anomalies. The findings can inform school-based nutrition education, local food
optimization, and policy planning to support adolescent health in coastal communities.
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