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[Anemia and depletion of iron reserves in healthy 12-month-old infants]
P Lafuente Mesanza1, E Ojembarrena Martínez, M Sasieta Altuna
1Centro de Salud de Erandio Desanexión, Vizcaya.
Insights
This study found 9.3% of infants had anemia and 6.9% had iron-deficiency anemia. Risk factors include prematurity and low socioeconomic status, suggesting targeted iron supplementation for high-risk infants.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nutrition
- Hematology
- Public Health
Context:
- Anemia and iron deficiency are significant global health concerns in infants.
- Early detection and intervention are crucial for preventing long-term developmental consequences.
Purpose:
- To determine the prevalence of anemia and iron deficiency in 12-month-old infants.
- To identify risk factors associated with these conditions in the studied population.
Summary:
- A prospective study of 287 infants in Vizcaya Health Centers assessed anemia and iron stores using somatometry and laboratory tests.
- Prevalence rates were 9.3% for anemia and 6.9% for iron-deficiency anemia, with 12.4% showing depleted iron stores.
- Significant risk factors included prematurity, socioeconomic status, low-iron milk, early cow's milk introduction, and 12-month weight.
Impact:
- Highlights the need for routine screening for anemia and iron deficiency in infants.
- Recommends iron supplementation for high-risk infants to mitigate adverse health outcomes.
- Informs public health strategies for infant nutrition and anemia prevention.
Abstract:
A prospective study was made which included 287 infants, 12 months of age and patients of two Vizcaya Health Centers, in order to determine the prevalence of anemia and/or depletion of iron stores. The study design included somatometry and a review of the clinical records, dietary habits and the socio-economic status of the family. Laboratory tests included: hematocrit, hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, number of erythrocytes, serum iron, transferrin, iron saturation percentage and serum ferritin. Anemia was present in 9.3% of these children and 6.9% had iron-deficiency anemia. Depletion of iron stores was found in 12.4%. Prematurity, socio-economic status, infants fed low-iron milk, early introduction of cow's milk and the weight at 12 months were all variables that correlated significantly with the anemic or iron deficient states. However, the number of infections during the first year of life did not show a significant correlation. A question about the necessity of routine screening is raised and recommendation is made for iron supplementation in the infants in the high risk group.
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