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The prevalence of serological markers of HBV and HCV were determined for blood donors in eastern Saudi Arabia. Between 1998 and 2001, 13,443 donors (10,778 Saudi and 2665 non-Saudi), were screened for HBsAg, anti-HBc Ab, and anti-HCV Ab using commercial kits. There was a steady decrease in the HBsAg (2.58 and 1.67%), anti-HBc rates (15.32 and 9.15%), and anti-HCV (1.04 and 0.59%) rates between 1998 and 2001, respectively. However, there was a marked difference between Saudi and non-Saudi donors with regard to anti-HBc (P < 0.001) and anti-HCV (P < 0.01), but not HBsAg prevalence rates in the same time period.

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Iron deficiency is the most prevalent nutritional deficiency worldwide. According to an estimate by the World Health Organization, up to 27% of the world’s population experience iron deficiency anemia (IDA). Studies conducted in the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, have suggested that IDA is the most common cause of anemia, especially among females. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of IDA and iron deficiency (ID) among apparently healthy young university students from four regions in Saudi Arabia. Students were asked to complete a simple survey questionnaire; blood samples were then collected and analyzed after obtaining informed consent. A total of 981 students completed the survey, with 11% of the participants reporting symptoms of anemia; 34% of participants were diagnosed with IDA and 6% reported a diagnosis of hemoglobinopathy. Blood analysis confirmed the prevalence of ID and IDA in 28.6% and 10.7% of the participants, respectively; those with ID and IDA were mostly females (88.5% and 94%, resp.). Thalassemia trait and sickle cell trait were detected in 1.3% and 7% of participants, respectively. Our findings from a national survey among young university in Saudi Arabia indicate a high prevalence of ID and IDA.