Prevalence of anemia and its etiology: a study in a semi urban area

Introduction: Anemia is recognized as a public health problem throughout the world affecting both developed and developing countries and is associated with nutritional deficiencies especially due to iron deficiency, which is the main factor for microcytic anemia, while folate or Vitamin B12 deficiencies are known to be responsible for macrocytic anemia. This study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of anemia in our area and its association with the lack nutrients. Materials and Methods: General demographic details such as age, gender, weight, economic status of the parents, etc were taken for 392 children between the ages of 6 months to 5 years. Blood samples were taken for all the patients for hemoglobin levels and estimation of iron, folic acid and Vitamin B12. Results: 179 (45.7%) patients were found to be anemic. Of them, 91 (50.8%) were with mild anemia, 76 (44.1%) were with moderate anemia. Severe anemia accounted for only 9 (5.0%) of the cases. Out of patients, the most prevalent age group with anemia was found to be 12-<24 months, followed by 6-<12 months. Of the micronutrients testes, iron deficiency either pure or mixed with other nutrients was the most predominant with folic acid deficiency being the lowest. Conclusion: Proper food, rich in nutrients, iron supplements are some of the essential requirements with regular check ups for the children below 5 years. Education regarding the importance of nutrition and harmful effects of iron deficiency on the child must be given.