Iron deficiency anemia in children

Abstract

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is the common nutritional disorder caused in children globally and is a serious public health concern, particularly in the developing countries. Iron deficiency anemia in children arises when there is no adequate intake of iron, impaired absorption of iron, when demands temporarily increase because of the rapid child growth, and when chronic blood loss occurs. Iron is needed for the production of haemoglobin, a protein that transports oxygen in blood. Without enough iron, production of red blood cells is decreased, resulting in inadequate oxygen supply of tissues. Children with IDA are typically pale, irritable, lethargic, and have loss of appetite and developmental delay in the intellect and motor skills. Low hemoglobin and haematocrit values, serum ferritin values lower than normal, and microcytic hypochromic red cell morphology on peripheral smear are also included in the diagnostic criteria for IDA. Diagnosis needs to be established early to administer appropriate iron supplementation and dietary change to cure and prevent IDA. Pregnant maternal nutrition, exclusive breastfeeding, and the implementation of iron-fortified foods in children's diets have been effective in reducing the prevalence of IDA in children and increasing overall growth and development.