Iron deficiency in children with global developmental delay and autism spectrum disorder

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Health
• Nutritional Science
• Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Background:

• Iron deficiency is a global health concern, particularly in children.
• Global developmental delay (GDD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are complex neurodevelopmental conditions.
• The prevalence and risk factors for iron deficiency in children with GDD and/or ASD require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of iron depletion, iron deficiency, and iron deficiency anaemia in children diagnosed with GDD and/or ASD.
• To identify potential risk factors associated with iron deficiency in this specific pediatric population.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of medical records for 122 children diagnosed with GDD and/or ASD was conducted.
• Data on iron studies and potential risk factors were extracted from community pediatric clinic files.
• Statistical analysis, including Pearson's chi-squared test and Fisher's exact test, was employed to analyze the data.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of iron depletion was 2.5%, iron deficiency was 6.6%, and iron deficiency anaemia was 4.1% in the study sample.
• In children with ASD, iron deficiency prevalence was 7.5%.
• Significant risk factors identified included difficulties with sucking, swallowing, or chewing; poor eating behaviors; and inadequate intake of meat, chicken, eggs, or fish.

Conclusions:

• Iron deficiency and iron deficiency anaemia are more prevalent in children with GDD and/or ASD compared to the general population.
• Feeding and dietary factors are significantly associated with iron deficiency in this cohort.
• These findings highlight the importance of screening for and addressing iron deficiency in children with neurodevelopmental disorders.