Arifa Sofia Mahra, Adi Magna Patriadi Nuhriawangsa, Yulia Sari

Coffee Consumption Patterns and Anemia Risk: A Cross-Sectional Study of Female University Students in Surakarta

Introduction

Coffee consumption patterns and anemia risk: a cross-sectional study of female university students in surakarta . Investigate coffee consumption patterns and anemia risk among female university students in Surakarta. This study reveals ready-to-drink coffee significantly increases anemia risk.

Abstract

Iron deficiency anemia in women of childbearing age is a public health problem. This can be caused by a lack of iron intake from protein sources and impaired iron absorption by inhibitors such as coffee. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between coffee consumption habits and the proportion of protein intake types on the incidence of anemia and menstrual cycle disorders in female university students in Surakarta. This study used a quantitative method with a cross-sectional design. A total of 110 samples were selected through purposive and consecutive sampling. Data collection on coffee consumption habits, protein intake, and menstrual cycle was conducted using questionnaires and SQ-FFQ, while hemoglobin levels were measured using a hematology autoanalyzer; then, it was analyzed using Spearman’s Rank or contingency coefficient test and binary logistic regression. The results showed that 39.1% respondents had anemia and 53.6% respondents had menstrual cycle disorders. Based on multivariate test, the only variable related to the incidence of anemia was the habit of consuming ready-to-drink coffee type (p=0.019; r=3.092). Meanwhile, general coffee consumption habits, specific consumption habits based on frequency and other types, and the proportion of protein intake types were not related to the incidence of anemia (p>0,05). Then, there were no variables of coffee consumption habits and proportion of protein intake types related to menstrual cycle disorders (p>0.05). In conclusion, only the habit of consuming ready-to-drink coffee type significantly increased the risk of anemia.

Review

This study tackles a highly relevant public health concern: iron deficiency anemia among women of childbearing age, specifically within a population of female university students. The authors effectively set out to analyze the relationship between coffee consumption habits, protein intake, and the incidence of anemia and menstrual cycle disorders. The use of a quantitative, cross-sectional design is suitable for identifying associations within this specific demographic, and the clear objectives provide a focused framework for the investigation. The study's initial findings regarding the high prevalence of both anemia (39.1%) and menstrual disorders (53.6%) in the student population underscore the practical importance of this research. Methodologically, the study utilized a reasonable sample size (n=110) selected through appropriate sampling techniques, and employed validated data collection methods including questionnaires, SQ-FFQ, and hematology autoanalysis for objective hemoglobin measurement. The core finding—that only the habit of consuming ready-to-drink coffee was significantly associated with an increased risk of anemia (p=0.019)—is particularly noteworthy and offers a more specific insight than general assumptions about coffee consumption. It is equally important to note that general coffee consumption habits, other specific types, and the proportion of protein intake were not found to be related to anemia, nor were any variables linked to menstrual cycle disorders. While the cross-sectional design effectively identifies existing associations, it inherently limits the ability to infer causality, which is a key consideration for interpreting the results. The conclusion that ready-to-drink coffee specifically increases anemia risk is a valuable contribution to the literature, suggesting that blanket recommendations regarding coffee and iron absorption might need refinement, and that specific components or processing of ready-to-drink varieties could be particularly problematic. This finding has practical implications for targeted nutritional education and interventions among young women. For future research, a longitudinal study design would be beneficial to explore causal pathways, and a deeper investigation into the specific ingredients or preparation methods of ready-to-drink coffee could elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Overall, this paper presents a well-conducted analysis within its design constraints, providing important preliminary data that warrants further exploration.

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