Cardiorespiratory Performance and Exertional Breathlessness in Young Women with Mild Anemia: A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Anemia is a common condition among young females that can impair oxygen delivery and compromise physical performance. Aerobic fitness, a key indicator of cardiovascular health, is often reduced in anemic individuals but remains under-assessed in this population. Objective: To evaluate the aerobic capacity and perceived exertional breathlessness among young anemic females using the Rockport 1-Mile Walk Test and the Modified Borg Dyspnea Scale. Design, Setting, and Participants: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted over the period of three months. The study involved 80 females aged 18–25 years, with mild anemia. Methods: Aerobic fitness was assessed using the Rockport 1-Mile Walk Test, and VO₂ max was estimated using a standard formula. Perceived breathlessness was measured immediately after exertion using the Modified Borg Dyspnea Scale. Descriptive statistics (mean ± SD) were used. Results: The mean VO₂ max was 23.15 ± 6.96 mL/kg/min, categorizing the majority of participants in the “poor” or “very poor” fitness levels. The average Modified Borg Dyspnea score was 2.81 ± 0.76, indicating moderate breathlessness on exertion. Among all the subjects, 50% of subjects felt moderate to somewhat severe grade of dyspnea on exertion Conclusion: The findings suggest that young anemic females demonstrate low aerobic capacity and experience moderate shortness of breath during submaximal exertion. These results highlight the importance of early fitness screening and targeted interventions to prevent long-term health risks in this population.