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Anemic or not?
Tiraje Celkan1, Emel Gür, Günay Can
1Department of Pediatrics Hematology-Oncology, Istanbul University, Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.
The Turkish Journal of Pediatrics
|February 11, 2004
Summary
Anemia prevalence in Istanbul schoolchildren varied significantly based on measurement methods. Electronic cell counters and hematocrit (Hct) values require careful interpretation to avoid misleading anemia prevalence data.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Hematology
- Public Health
Background:
- Anemia is a significant public health concern, particularly in school-aged children.
- Accurate assessment of hematological parameters is crucial for diagnosing anemia.
- Electronic cell counters are widely used for routine blood analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence of anemia among schoolchildren in Istanbul.
- To compare anemia prevalence using different hematological criteria (hemoglobin, hematocrit, MCV).
- To evaluate the impact of measurement methods on anemia prevalence data.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 1,600 schoolchildren aged 6-16 in Istanbul.
- Hematological parameters measured using an electronic cell counter.
- Anemia prevalence determined using Dallman's criteria, comparing hemoglobin (Hb) and hematocrit (Hct) values.
Main Results:
- Anemia prevalence was 27.6% using Hb and 40.8% using Hct, a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001).
- Microcytosis (low MCV) was observed in 7.9% of students.
- Correcting Hct values by 3% (to account for automated vs. spun differences) yielded an anemia prevalence of 27.3%, similar to the Hb criterion.
Conclusions:
- The choice of criterion (Hb vs. Hct) significantly impacts anemia prevalence estimates in schoolchildren.
- Automated hematocrit measurements may require adjustments for accurate anemia screening.
- Population-based anemia screening surveys must carefully consider and report the methodologies used to ensure reliable results.