Prevalence of iron deficiency anemia in hospitalized infants
1 Pediatrician University Hospital Center “Mother Tereza”, Tirana, Albania.
2 Radiologist American Hospital Kosovo, Albania.
3 Professor Chef of Pediatric Disease Ward University Hospital Center “Mother Tereza”, Tirana, Albania.
4 Psychologist University Hospital Center “Mother Tereza”, Tirana, Albania.
Research Article
World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2023, 17(01), 455-458
Article DOI: 10.30574/wjarr.2023.17.1.0052
Publication history:
Received on 04 December 2022; revised on 12 January 2023; accepted on 15 January 2023
Abstract:
Iron is vital, as it is essential for many metabolic processes, including oxygen transport, electron transport, DNA synthesis and repair. Iron balance in the body is regulated carefully so that iron losses are compensated by sufficient iron absorption. Iron deficiency is a common cause of anemia and is typically due to insufficient intake, poor absorption or overt or occult blood loss. The World Health Organization has recognized iron deficiency anemia as the most common nutritional deficiency in the world with 30% of the population being affected. This study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia in 152 hospitalized infants between 1-12 months old. Iron deficiency anemia resulted highly prevalent in this age group, 45% of infants had Hemoglobin level <10g/dl. Despite nutrition, there are other social-economic factors that play a role in the high prevalence of iron deficiency anemia in infants. Conclusively it is stated that, as iron deficiency impairs neurologic development and growth in infants, an adequate clinical attention and evaluation should be directed towards it. Routine screening starting at 9 to 12 months is recommended to help preventing the development of anemia. It is also important adequate weaning and early introduction of iron-rich foods, 4-6 months of age.
Keywords:
Iron; Anemia; Deficiency; Infants; Breastfeeding
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