Anaemia may adversely impact Early Childhood Development, suggests new study
Written By : Aditi
Medically Reviewed By : Dr. Kamal Kant Kohli
Published On 2024-04-03 21:15 GMT | Update On 2024-04-04 05:25 GMT
Advertisement
Iron plays a vital role in the growth and development of young children. In low- and middle-income countries, anaemia is a significant health issue, and young children are vulnerable to iron deficiency anaemia. Previous research studies have shown the association between low iron and poor development outcomes in children.
A study published in PLOS ONE demonstrated the association between anemia and early childhood development (ECD). The study analysed population-based surveys in nine low- and middle-income countries. The unadjusted association between having anemia and ECD showed that children with moderate or severe anemia were less likely to be on track developmentally for literacy-numeracy, physical, social-emotional, learning, and the overall index in several countries.
Anaemia is a serious public health problem in most countries. Over half of children were developmentally on track, but variation was evident across countries. Significant associations were present with several developmental outcomes in bivariate analyses. Only two small, statistically significant connections were observed between social-emotional and physical development in Benin and Maldives.
In LMICs, 43% of children under the age of five are at risk of not meeting their developmental potential. More data on associations between anemia status and ECD need to be collected in extensive population-based surveys.
Our comments section is governed by our Comments Policy . By posting comments at Medical Dialogues you automatically agree with our Comments Policy , Terms And Conditions and Privacy Policy .
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.