Abstract
Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the hemoglobin value of Jordanian
subjects over 40 years who live in Amman and its surrounding areas.
Methods: A prospective survey of the level of hemoglobin (Hb) was carried out in a
randomly selected 526 Jordanian subjects (57.8% women) over the age of 40, who
attended the outpatient medical clinic in Queen Alia Military Hospital over a one year
interval period. Place of residence, smoking status, blood pressure measurement and
blood sugar estimation was taken into consideration.
Results: There were 304 women and 222 men. The mean Hb level was
13.56±1.32g/dl in women and 15.06±1.42g/dl in men (p<0.001). In men, Hb levels
did not differ in regard to place of residency, but women of rural origin had
significantly lower Hb levels than other women (p<0.001). Women under age 50 had
significantly (p<0.001) lower Hb levels than older women. Smokers had significantly
higher Hb levels than non-smokers (p<0.002) and there was weak correlation with
numbers of cigarettes smoked (men rs=0.07, p=0.07; women rs=0.14, p<0.001).
Nineteen subjects (3.6%) were found to be anemic (Hb < 11.5g/dl in women or <
12.5g/dl in men).
Conclusions: The mean hemoglobin level in Jordanian adults at around 600-1025 m
altitude was 13.56±1.32g/dl in women and 15.06±1.42g/dl in men. (Rawal Med J
2008;33:71-73).

Key words: Hemoglobinemia, Jordan, Altitude.