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Iron Deficiency Prevalence in Bulgarian Children with Cerebral Palsy and Autism: A Call for Nutritional Interventions
Rositsa Chamova1,2, Silviya Nikolova2,3, Albena Toneva1,2
1Department of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Medical University, 9002 Varna, Bulgaria.
Insights
Many Bulgarian children with cerebral palsy (CP) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) show signs of latent iron deficiency (ID), impacting their development. Targeted dietary programs and regular monitoring are recommended.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nutrition
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Nutritional Biochemistry
Background:
- Iron is crucial for cognitive, behavioral, and motor development in children.
- Iron deficiency (ID) is a common concern, potentially affecting neurodevelopmental outcomes.
- Children with cerebral palsy (CP) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may be at higher risk for nutritional deficiencies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the iron nutritional status of Bulgarian children diagnosed with CP and ASD.
- To investigate the prevalence of iron deficiency (ID) in these pediatric populations.
- To explore the relationship between iron status, dietary habits, and developmental parameters.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 95 children from northeastern Bulgaria.
- Data collection included demographic and food frequency questionnaires, anthropometric measurements, and laboratory tests (hemoglobin, serum iron, serum ferritin, CRP).
- Motor function in CP was assessed using the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS).
Main Results:
- Latent iron deficiency, indicated by low serum ferritin, was identified in 62.7% of children with CP and 36.8% of children with ASD.
- Hemoglobin and serum iron levels were mostly normal, suggesting ID is primarily in its early stages.
- Children with CP exhibited delayed growth and lower height-for-age scores compared to peers.
Conclusions:
- Latent iron deficiency is prevalent in Bulgarian children with CP and ASD.
- Dietary patterns require intervention to improve nutritional status and support development.
- Regular monitoring and targeted nutritional programs are essential for these vulnerable children.
Abstract:
Background/Objectives: Iron plays an important role in cognitive, behavioral, and motor development. This study aims to assess the iron nutritional status of Bulgarian children with cerebral palsy (CP) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), focusing on iron deficiency (ID) and its impact on children's development. We hypothesized that children with CP and ASD suffer from iron deficiency. Methods: The cross-sectional study includes 95 children from northeastern Bulgaria. Data were collected in two periods (2017-2018 and 2023-2024). Demographic questionnaires, food frequency questionnaires, and laboratory tests for hemoglobin, serum iron, serum ferritin, serum albumin, and CRP were conducted. Anthropometric measurements were evaluated. The Gross Motor Function Classification System scale was used to assess motor function in children with CP. Statistical analysis was performed using Jamovi software, ver. 2.6.44, with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: Of the 95 children, 62.1% had CP and 37.9% had ASD. Most children had normal hemoglobin and serum iron levels, but 62.7% of those with CP and 36.8% of those with ASD had low serum ferritin levels, indicating latent ID. A higher proportion of children with CP than those with ASD consumed meat daily, while fish was more commonly consumed by children with ASD. Anthropometric data showed delayed growth and lower height-for-age scores in children with CP. Conclusions: The study identifies latent ID in children with CP and ASD. An evaluation of dietary habits highlights the need for interventions to improve nutritional status and development. The observed deficiencies emphasize the need for regular monitoring and targeted dietary programs for children in these groups.
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