Menstruation and Anemia Research: A Community Health Study

Summary

This research is studying if a community-based, community health worker (CHW) led psychosocial intervention improves hemoglobin levels among Black/African American and/or Hispanic or Latino women with anemia compared to standard of care. The intervention group will demonstrate a greater mean increase in hemoglobin at follow up than the control group. The expected treatment difference effect is a between group difference of 1.0-point or greater in mean Hgb at follow up.

Eligibility

Age range

21–55 years

Sex

Female

Healthy volunteers

No

Interventions

• Behavioral
  Standard of Care

  Participant will be given verbal and written information on taking iron.

• Behavioral
  Informational Series and follow-up support

  The CHW-led intervention is a structured, community-based psychosocial education series for participants randomized to the intervention arm. Trained CHWs will deliver five sessions over 10 weeks covering: (1) blood and hemoglobin basics; (2) anemia and common treatments; (3) normal menstrual health; (4) abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB), including common causes and treatments; and (5) AUB across the reproductive lifespan, with review. Sessions may be in person or use another approved, accessible modality. Standardized materials and guides will support consistency while allowing questions, discussion, and culturally responsive dialogue. CHWs will help participants understand hemoglobin results, prepare questions, connect with providers or establish care, and navigate anemia-related follow-up. CHWs will not give medical advice, diagnose conditions, or prescribe treatment.

Locations (2)