Prevalence of Anemia Among Children in a Single University Hospital

INTRODUCTION

Anemia is a common public health issue, causing an increase in mortality and morbidity, especially in pregnant women and children. WHO reported the prevalence of anemia in preschool children as 47.4%. Iron deficiency is responsible for approximately 50% of cases with anemia. This study aims to determine the prevalence of anemia and the underlying causes of anemia in pediatric patients who were admitted to the reference hospital.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was planned retrospectively and children between 0.5-15 years of age who were admitted to our hospital for any reason between July 2017-July 2018 were included. Sampling included those with anemia, hemoglobin value less than 11 g/dl.

RESULTS

The incidence of anemia was 8.2%(n=4655). The median age of anemic children was three years, and 54.4% were male. Anemia was more common among 2-5 year-old-children (50.8%). The prevalence of anemia was higher in boys at age of 0.5-1 and 2-5 years old, while it was higher in girls at age of 10-12 years and 13-15 years old, and the difference was statistically significant. The median hemoglobin was 10.2(min-max: 2.8-10.9)g/dl, MCV was 74.5(min-max: 46.9-126.8)fl.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

The incidence of anemia in a reference centre in Black Sea region of Turkey at 0.5- 15 years of age is 8%. The laboratory parameters were consistent with a probable diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia. The majority of patients(64%) had mild anemia. Physicians dealing and cooperating with parents in the prevention and treatment of anemia is critical in protecting children from anemia, which is a reason of preventable mental retardation.