Arabic web-based educational resources on iron deficiency anemia: an infodemiological study

Abstract

Introduction Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is the most widespread nutritional deficiency worldwide. This study aimed to evaluate the quality, reliability, and readability of Arabic web-based resources on IDA. Materials and methods A retrospective, infodemiological descriptive study was conducted using validated assessment tools. A web-based search was performed on July 8, 2025, and the collected websites were evaluated using validated assessment tools, including DISCERN, JAMA, FKGL, SMOG, and FRE. Results Of 36 included websites, most were from medical institutions or health portals. Overall reliability was limited (mean JAMA score 1.39 ± 0.96), and no website met all JAMA criteria. Website quality was generally moderate (DISCERN 39.72 ± 8.83), with governmental and public health websites performing poorly (p < 0.001). Readability was high (FKGL 3.65 ± 3.58; SMOG 3.26 ± 0.79; FRE ≥ 80 in 97.2%). JAMA and DISCERN scores were positively correlated (ρ = 0.430, p = 0.009). Conclusion Arabic-language web resources on IDA are easily readable but demonstrate significant deficiencies in quality and reliability. This pronounced gap may contribute to misinformation, delayed care-seeking, and suboptimal management. Collaboration between medical institutions, public health organizations, and digital platforms will be essential for developing standardized, evidence-based patient education materials, which could support earlier intervention and help reduce the public health burden of IDA in Arabic-speaking communities.

Affiliated Institutions

• King Faisal University SA

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