Haemoglobin reference values in the Jamaican population - abstract

ABSTRACT

In a study of the iron nutritional status of the Jamaican population, the reference range for haemoglobin (Hb) was determined. Mean Hb levels in all age groups were markedly lower than internationally accepted values (Table). The cut-off points used to define anaemia were also determined and they were also markedly lower than the international values. Use of the local cut-off points resulted in a lower prevalence of anaemia than if international values were used and in the identification of one third of individuals with iron deficiency (determined by iron stores measurement) as being anaemic. Local reference ranges for haemoglobin should be developed, wherever possible, as this study clearly shows that the internationally accepted ranges are not universally applicable (AU)