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Prevalence of Iron Deficiency Anaemia Among School Children in Kenitra, Northwest of Morocco
Insights
Iron deficiency anaemia affects 16.2% of Moroccan school children in Kenitra. Improving maternal education and dietary habits are key to reducing this prevalent health issue.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Pediatrics
- Hematology
Background:
- Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is a significant global health concern, particularly impacting vulnerable populations.
- Anaemia poses a substantial public health challenge in Morocco, necessitating localized epidemiological data.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of anaemia among school-aged children (6-15 years) in Kenitra, Morocco.
- To investigate potential contributing factors, including dietary intake and socio-economic conditions.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 271 school children in Kenitra.
- Assessment of haemoglobin, haematocrit, and red blood cell indices; seric iron levels were measured.
- Data collection on daily food consumption and socio-economic factors via questionnaire.
Main Results:
- The overall prevalence of anaemia was 16.2%.
- Mean haemoglobin levels were comparable between boys (12.53 g/dL) and girls (12.52 g/dL).
- Maternal education showed a significant association with childhood anaemia (p=0.004), unlike family income.
Conclusions:
- Iron deficiency is a primary driver of anaemia in this school-aged population.
- Strategies to combat anaemia should focus on enhancing maternal education, improving socio-economic status, and promoting balanced nutrition.
Abstract:
Iron deficiency anaemia is an important health problem in Morocco. This study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of anaemia among school children in Kenitra. The sample represents school children of all educational levels and age ranged between 6-15 years. The level of hemoglobin, haematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration was measured in a group of 271 school children. The seric iron was assessed and anaemia was defined when hemoglobin < 11.5 g dL(-1). A questionnaire was developed to obtain information about the daily food consumption and socio-economic conditions. The prevalence of anaemia was 16.2%. The mean hemoglobin concentration was 12.53 g dL(-1) in boys and 12.52 g dL(-1) in girls. The results suggest that iron deficiency is an important determinant of anaemia in this population. There was a significant relationship between education of the mother and anaemia in children (p = 0.004) but not with the family income. It is concluded that improving the economic status of the family, women education and health education about balanced animal and plant food consumption are recommended strategies to reduce the burden of anaemia.
