A Study on the effect of haemoglobin concentration on audio-visual reaction time

The present study was conducted to compare Auditory Reaction Time (ART) and Visual Reaction Time (VRT) in normal and anemic female subjects and also to correlate the same with the haemoglobin (Hb) concentration. Female students of age group 18-20 years were recruited. After haemoglobin estimation subjects with Hb<12g% were assigned as group I (n=30) and subjects with Hb≥12g% were assigned as group II (n=30). ART and VRT were assessed by making use of an in-house built device PC 1000. Data was analysed employing unpaired student’s “t” test using SPSS version 16 and significance value was fixed at p <0.05. The results showed highly significant prolonged ART and VRT in anemic individuals (p =0.001) and a negative correlation between ART and Hb; also VRT and Hb. Thus it can be concluded that with decreased haemoglobin concentration the ART and VRT are prolonged and that early correction of anemia can prevent ill effects.