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[Iron deficiency in hospitalized infants: study of the incidence of the nutritional factor]
G A Loeuille1, F Dereux, O Lecourt
1Service de pédiatrie, CHG Dunkerque, France.
Insights
Iron deficiency affects over half of hospitalized infants, with feeding practices being a key factor. Promoting breastfeeding and iron-fortified formulas can prevent infant iron deficiency and anemia.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Nutritional Science
- Hematology
Background:
- Iron deficiency is a significant global health concern in infants.
- Infant nutrition and feeding practices play a crucial role in iron status.
- Hospitalized infants may be at increased risk for nutritional deficiencies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the iron status of hospitalized infants aged 3 months to 2 years.
- To identify factors contributing to iron deficiency in this population.
- To provide recommendations for preventing infant iron deficiency.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 209 hospitalized infants was studied over a 6-month period.
- Hematological parameters were assessed to determine iron status.
- Infant feeding practices, including breastfeeding and formula consumption, were recorded.
Main Results:
- Over half (50.2%) of the infants were iron-depleted, with 24.8% having iron deficiency anemia.
- Breastfeeding and iron-fortified formula use were significantly lower and shorter in iron-deficient infants.
- Incorrect dietary practices were more prevalent in infants with iron deficiency.
Conclusions:
- Infant feeding practices, particularly breastfeeding and iron-fortified milk formula, are critical determinants of iron status.
- Maternal education on optimal infant nutrition is essential for preventing iron deficiency.
- Recommendations include encouraging breastfeeding and continued use of iron-fortified formula until one year of age.
Abstract:
We report an investigation on the iron status of 209 hospitalized 3-month--2-year-old infants over a 6-month period. Hematological parameters and infant feeding practice were determined: a total of 105 infants (50.2%) were found to be iron-depleted, with (24.8%) or without (25.4%) anemia. The mode of lactation appeared to be the main determining factor in iron deficiency, as shown by the fact that during the first months, breast feeding and consumption of an iron-fortified milk formula were 50% less frequent and of shorter duration in infants with iron deficiency than in normal infants. Incorrect diet was also more frequent in iron-deficient infants. It is concluded that iron deficiency in infants could be prevented by better informing mothers in order to encourage breast-feeding and develop the use of an iron-fortified milk formula until the infant reaches the age of one year.