Related Experiment Videos
Discovering anaemia at child health clinics
Archives of Disease in Childhood
|August 1, 1990
Insights
Fingerprick blood tests for anaemia screening are effective in children. This study found 25% of children had anaemia, with higher rates in Asian children, indicating a need for targeted interventions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Health
- Hematology
- Public Health
Background:
- Childhood anaemia is a significant public health concern.
- Screening for anaemia is crucial for early detection and intervention.
- Inner-city populations often face higher risks of nutritional deficiencies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence of anaemia in young children attending urban health clinics.
- To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of fingerprick haemoglobin testing during routine immunisation visits.
- To identify potential disparities in anaemia rates among different ethnic groups.
Main Methods:
- Haemoglobin estimation using fingerprick blood samples was offered to children during measles immunisation.
- Data were collected from 130 children across three inner-city child health clinics.
- Parental and staff acceptability of the testing method was assessed.
Main Results:
- Anaemia (haemoglobin < 110 g/l) was detected in 25% (33 of 130) of the children studied.
- Asian children exhibited a higher prevalence of anaemia at 39% (17 of 44).
- The fingerprick testing method was well-accepted by parents and healthcare staff.
Conclusions:
- Fingerprick haemoglobin testing is a practical and acceptable method for childhood anaemia screening in primary care settings.
- A significant proportion of children in this urban cohort were anaemic, highlighting the need for continued screening.
- The elevated anaemia rates in Asian children warrant further investigation and targeted public health strategies.
Abstract:
Children at three inner city child health clinics were offered haemoglobin estimation by fingerprick blood test when attending for immunisation against measles. Of the 98 immunised, 92 (94%) participated in the study, together with 58 other children. Anaemia (haemoglobin concentration less than 110 g/l) was found in 33 of 130 overall (25%), and in 17 of 44 Asian children (39%). The method of testing was acceptable to parents and staff.