Anemia and Iron Status Among Children Aged 6-59 Months in an Integrated Child Development Services Project in Darbhanga, Bihar

摘要

Objective : To assess the magnitude/ severity and possible etiology of anemia and iron deficiency among children 6-59 months of age. Methods : A population-based study on the prevalence, etiology of anemia and iron status in 545 children, 6-59months of age, was conducted in an ICDS (Integrated Child Development Services) project Darbhanga, Bihar. Hemoglobin and serum ferritin were estimated and information on dietary intake was collected. Results : Prevalence of anemia (using WHO cut-off values of Hb<11.0 g/dl) among children, 6-59 months of age, was 63.5%, of these 3.1% had severe anemia (Hb<7.0 g/dl) 40.2% were moderately anemic(Hb 7.0-9.9) and 20.2% were mildly anemic(Hb 10-10.9). On a sub-sample study, 88% children were estimated to be iron deficient, with serum ferrtin concentration less than 12 ug/L. The peripheral smear red cell morphology showed 33.9% as microcytic-hypochromic and 37.1% as dimorphic. Dimorphic anemia was 55% in moderate anemia group. The energy and iron intakes were 56% and 45%, respectively of the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA). Conclusions : In Darbhanga, high prevalence of moderate to severe anemia and iron deficiency with vitamins folate and/or B12 among children under 5 years of age is prevalent. Dietary origin was the main cause of anemia in this age group.