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[Protective factors for iron deficiency anemia: prospective study in low-income infants]
Macarena Urrestarazu Devincenzi1, Fernando A Basile Colugnati, Dirce Maria Sigulem
1Universidade Federal de São Paulo-UNIFESP/EPM, Brasil.
Insights
Iron deficiency anemia in infants is linked to early cow's milk intake and more siblings. Healthy feeding practices, including infant formula and nutrient-rich foods from 6 months, can prevent anemia.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Nutritional Science
- Public Health
Context:
- Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a significant global health concern in infants.
- Low socioeconomic status populations often face higher IDA risks.
- This study focused on infants in São Paulo, Brazil, under a primary healthcare program.
Purpose:
- To identify risk and protective factors for IDA in infants below 24 months.
- To analyze growth, morbidity, dietary factors, and hemoglobin levels.
- To inform prevention strategies for IDA in vulnerable populations.
Summary:
- 130 low-socioeconomic status infants were monitored from birth.
- Hemoglobin levels were measured using a Hemocue photometer; anemia defined as Hb < 11 g/dL.
- Risk factors included early cow's milk intake and having 3+ siblings; protective factors included later age (18-24 months) and specific dietary intakes (infant formula, vitamin C, meat, beans).
Impact:
- Identifies specific dietary and familial factors contributing to IDA in infants.
- Highlights the importance of age-appropriate feeding practices and nutrient supplementation.
- Provides evidence for targeted public health interventions to prevent IDA in at-risk communities.
Abstract:
This study was performed to assess both risk and protective factors associated with iron deficiency anemia in 130 infants with age below 24 months, with low socio-economic status and followed since their births by a primary health care program in the city of São Paulo, Brazil. Growth, morbidity and dietary factors were analysed as well as hemoglobin levels (Hb) at regular intervals (6, 9, 12, 18 and 24 months). The portable Hemocue photometer was employed to measure hemoglobin levels and anemia was considered when Hb values were below 11 g/dL. Simple logistic regression was used with socio-economic variables, age group, nutritional status, morbidity, breastfeeding and food intake. Risk factors for anemia in the studied group were intake of cow's milk at 4 months and who has 3 or more old brothers (OR approximately = 2). The protective factors for anemia were age between 18 and 24 months and intake of infant formula, vitamin C, meat and beans at 6 months (OR approximately = 0.5). The prevention of iron deficiency anemia includes encouraging healthy feeding practices starting at 6 months of life.
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