Alexithymia, Psychiatric Symptoms, And Quality Of Life In Females With Iron Deficiency Anaemia

Background and Objectives: The objective is to recognise that anaemia can induce both psychological problems and physical ailments. This research sought to assess alexithymia, mental symptoms, and quality of life in female patients suffering from iron deficiency anaemia. Methods: The study comprised 150 healthy controls and 151 women diagnosed with iron-deficient anaemia. Alongside laboratory analyses, the Sociodemographic and Clinical Data Form, Beck Depression Scale (BDS), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI Form TX-1, TX-2), World Health Organisation Quality of Life Scale Short Form Turkish Version (WHOQOL-BREF-TR), and Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20) were administered to all participants. The Iron-deficiency Anaemia Group exhibited lower scores on the WHOQOL-BREF and STAI-1 while demonstrating a higher score on the Toronto Alexithymia Scale compared to the control group. The prevalence of iron-deficiency anaemia, Beck Depression Scale scores, and STAI Form TX-2 scores was elevated in the likely alexithymia group compared to the non-alexithymia group, whereas the WHOQOL-BREF-TR scores were diminished in the former group. The Toronto Alexithymia Scale score had a positive correlation with total iron binding capacity, the Beck Depression Scale, and the STAI Form TX-2 score, while demonstrating a negative correlation with haemoglobin, iron (Fe), and the WHOQOL-BREF-TR score. Multivariate analysis indicated that elevated total iron binding capacity (OR: 1.003, 95% CI: 1.000-1.006; p=0.044), increased STAI-2 score (OR: 1.098, 95% CI: 1.050-1.147; p< 0.001), and diminished WHOQOL-BREF score (OR: 0.966, 95% CI: 0.950-0.982; p< 0.001) were independently correlated with probable alexithymia or alexithymia. In conclusion, women with iron-deficient anaemia exhibit higher levels of alexithymia, alongside diminished state-trait anxiety and quality of life. The alexithymia levels in these patients correlate with elevated iron-binding capability, heightened anxiety, and diminished quality of life.