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Surveillance for anaemia: risk factors in patterns of milk intake
1Department of Community Paediatrics, Waltham Forest Health Authority.
Insights
Iron deficiency anaemia is more prevalent in non-white children. Continued breast milk and early whole cow's milk introduction are linked to higher anaemia rates, while formula milk protects against it.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Nutrition Science
- Hematology
Background:
- Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is a significant public health concern in young children.
- Dietary patterns, particularly milk intake, are suspected contributors to IDA.
- Understanding these associations is crucial for targeted prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between milk consumption patterns and the incidence of anaemia in children aged 8-24 months.
- To identify specific milk feeding practices associated with an increased risk of anaemia.
- To compare anaemia prevalence across different milk feeding types and ethnic groups.
Main Methods:
- A surveillance program for IDA was conducted.
- Children aged 8-24 months attending routine immunization clinics were assessed.
- Haemoglobin levels were measured, and dietary questionnaires focused on milk intake (type, volume, introduction age) were administered.
Main Results:
- Anaemia (Hb < 110 g/l) was diagnosed in 22% of children, with higher prevalence in non-white children.
- Continued breastfeeding and early introduction of whole cow's milk were significantly associated with increased anaemia prevalence.
- Children consuming formula milk showed no instances of anaemia. Asian children consumed more milk daily, but this did not correlate with haemoglobin levels.
Conclusions:
- Breast milk and early whole cow's milk intake are risk factors for anaemia in young children.
- Formula milk appears to be protective against anaemia in this age group.
- Further research into specific milk components and absorption inhibitors may be warranted.
Abstract:
The association between patterns of milk intake and anaemia was studied during a surveillance programme for iron deficiency anaemia. Children aged 8-24 months were examined when they attended a routine immunisation clinic. Haemoglobin was measured on finger prick blood samples using a portable haemoglobinometer, and a dietary questionnaire was completed, with special emphasis on the type and volume of milk intake and the age at which whole cows' milk was introduced. Anaemia (defined as a haemoglobin concentration of less than 110 g/l) was diagnosed in 33 children (22%) and was more common among children who were not white. Continued feeding with breast milk and the early introduction of whole cows' milk were associated with a significantly higher prevalence of anaemia. No child taking formula milk was anaemic. Asian children drank significantly more milk a day than other groups, but there was no correlation between daily milk intake and haemoglobin concentration.