Prevalence of iron deficiency anemia in school going girls of pubertal age group Introduction Iron deficiency anemia is a formidable health challenge in developing countries and remains persistently high despite national programs to control this deficiency 1 In the phase of later school age and early adolescence nutrient and minerals requirements are high and reserves are being laid for the subsequent rapid growth and development Iron deficiency in this age group has been primarily studied for its adverese effect on hematinic status However anemia may compromise pubertal growth spurt In girls due to initiation of their menstrual period they are more exposed to iron deficiency The consequence of this anemia during puberty has negative effects on fertility of the individual in future and has the risks of delivery of low birth weight preterm birth and abortions It may also reduce physical work capacity and cognitive function This in turn may adversely affect learning and scholastic performance of the school girls entering adolescence with subsequent academic failure