The effect of nutrition and severity of iron deficiency anaemia on growth in children from two months to two years of age

Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is associated with increased morbidity, mortality, impaired growth and cognitive development of children. PURPOSE: to evaluate the effect of nutrition and severity of IDA on growth in children from 2 to 24 months of age. METHODS 172 children aged 2-24 months with IDA were categorized into two groups: G1 (0-12 months) and G2 (13-24 months). Diet was studied through interview. Anthropometric parameters: height-for-age (HA) and weight-for-age were assessed by standardized methods. IDA was defined as haemoglobin (Hb), mean corpuscular volume, serum iron, and transferrin saturation below age-related reference values of the World Health Organization. Anaemia was classified as severe, moderate, and mild according to Hb concentration. Associations between variables were analyzed by logistic regression. RESULTS High proportions of children predominantly fed on cow’s milk with scarce or absent intake of meat, eggs, vegetables were found in G1 (30.2%) and G2 (19.8%). Predominant cow’s milk feeding was significantly associated with growth retardation (HA<3rd percentile). In G2, severe anemia (Hb<70 g/l) exhibited significant (p=0.0344) association with stunting. CONCLUSIONS Inadequate nutrition and severe IDA increase risk of growth retardation in the first two years of life. Promotion of appropriate feeding practices is important in prevention and control of IDA.