Body mass index in children with beta-thalassemia major

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Hematology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Underweight and low body mass index (BMI) are linked to various health issues.
• Beta-thalassemia major patients exhibit growth abnormalities, yet BMI is understudied.
• Growth abnormalities are common in beta-thalassemia major, impacting overall health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of underweight in pediatric patients with beta-thalassemia major.
• To analyze BMI percentiles in relation to age and sex in beta-thalassemia major patients.
• To highlight the significance of BMI monitoring in managing beta-thalassemia major.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted on pediatric patients (<18 years) with beta-thalassemia major.
• Medical history and physical examinations were performed.
• Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated and compared with standardized percentile curves for age and sex.

Main Results:

• 12.4% of patients under 10 and 46.5% of patients over 10 years had BMI below the 10th percentile.
• A significant increase in underweight prevalence was observed in patients older than 10 years (p<0.000001).
• Gender differences in BMI were significant, particularly in patients over 10 years old (p<0.000001).

Conclusions:

• Underweight is a prevalent issue in beta-thalassemia major patients, especially adolescents.
• Potential contributing factors include endocrinopathies and under-nutrition.
• Routine monitoring of growth velocity and BMI is essential for timely intervention and treatment protocols.