Prevalence of Anemia in Children with Recurrent Infections: A Cross-Sectional Study
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Abstract
Background: Anemia remains a significant public health issue, particularly in children with recurrent infections, contributing to increased morbidity and impaired development. Objective: To determine the prevalence, severity, and associated factors of anemia in children with recurrent infections. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2023 to July 2024, including 200 children aged 1–12 years with recurrent infections. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and medical record reviews. Sociodemographic, nutritional, and clinical information was analyzed alongside blood parameters, including hemoglobin, serum ferritin, serum iron, and C-reactive protein (CRP). Statistical analyses included chi-square tests, Pearson correlation, and multivariate logistic regression, with a significance threshold of p < 0.05. Results: The prevalence of anemia was 66.0%, with mild anemia being the most common (37.0%), followed by moderate (23.0%) and severe (6.0%). Anemia was significantly associated with low socioeconomic status (54.0%), insufficient dietary iron intake (41.0%), and non-exclusive breastfeeding (43.0%). Recurrent infections, including fever (90.0%), cough and cold (82.0%), and diarrhea (61.0%), were significantly correlated with anemia. Blood analysis revealed lower hemoglobin (mean 8.4 ± 1.2 g/dL), serum ferritin (mean 8.5 ± 4.3 ng/mL), and elevated CRP (mean 8.1 ± 2.4 mg/L) among anemic children. Logistic regression identified low socioeconomic status, insufficient iron intake, and elevated CRP as significant predictors of anemia. Conclusion: Anemia is highly prevalent among children with recurrent infections, driven by socioeconomic, nutritional, and clinical factors. Integrated interventions addressing dietary deficiencies and infection prevention are crucial.
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