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Iron Deficiency, Cognitive Functions, and Neurobehavioral Disorders in Children

Lyudmila Pivina1,2, Yuliya Semenova1,2, Monica Daniela Doşa3

  • 1Semey Medical University, Semey, Kazakhstan.

Journal of Molecular Neuroscience : MN
|February 20, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) significantly impacts cognitive development in children, affecting brain metabolism and psychomotor skills. Public health interventions like iron supplementation and food fortification are highly cost-effective in preventing cognitive impairment globally.

Area of Science:

  • Nutritional Neuroscience
  • Public Health
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) affects over 25% of the global population, with children under seven being the most vulnerable.
  • Iron is crucial for brain metabolism, neurotransmitter homeostasis, myelination, synaptogenesis, and basal ganglia function.
  • IDA is linked to cognitive deficits, psychomotor impairments, and is a frequent comorbidity in ADHD and autism spectrum disorder.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the critical role of iron in infant brain development.
  • To underscore the adverse effects of iron deficiency on cognitive and psychomotor development.
  • To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of public health interventions for IDA.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review on the impact of iron deficiency on brain development.
  • Analysis of IDA prevalence and risk factors in vulnerable populations.
  • Assessment of global public health strategies for IDA control, including supplementation and food fortification.
  • Evaluation of cost-effectiveness using WHO-CHOICE criteria.

Main Results:

  • Iron deficiency significantly impairs cognitive functions and psychomotor development in children.
  • IDA can exacerbate deficiencies in other essential nutrients, negatively impacting infant brain development.
  • Iron supplementation and food fortification programs are recognized as cost-effective or highly cost-effective interventions.

Conclusions:

  • Addressing iron deficiency anemia is crucial for preventing cognitive impairment in children.
  • Public health initiatives focusing on iron supplementation and food fortification are essential and cost-effective strategies.
  • Global programs for IDA control are vital for safeguarding child development and public health.

Keywords:
ADHDAnemiaAutismChildrenCognitive functionIron deficiencyPsychomotor development

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