A cross-sectional study of anaemia in children under 15 years of age attending a community health centre in Punjab

Background: Anaemia is the common nutritional problem in the world having a detrimental effect on the growth and development of the child. The objective of the study was to estimate the prevalence of anaemia in the region and its correlation with iron deficiency, serum ferritin, vitamin B12 and folate deficiency. Methods: A hospital based observational cross-sectional study was carried out in the outpatient paediatrics department of a Community Health Centre in Punjab. Study subjects included 52 anaemic children aged under 15 years of age. They were evaluated by obtaining a detailed history, physical examination and haemoglobin, serum iron, serum ferritin, serum vitamin B12 and folate levels. Results: Among 52 anaemic children, iron deficiency was found in 62% cases (32 children) with 48% of cases showing low ferritin levels and 25% having elevated TIBC. Isolated vitamin B12 deficiency was present in 25% cases (13 children) and folic acid deficiency in 8% cases (4 children). Vitamin D deficiency<15 ng/ml was seen in 29% anaemic children (15 children) and vitamin D insufficiency in 31% cases (16 children). Significant associations were found between low hemoglobin and low serum iron (p=0.031) and ferritin (p=0.001). Conclusions: Iron deficiency anaemia, vitamin B12 and folate deficiency contributes significantly to the prevalence of anaemia. The National Family Health Survey-5 has reported an increase in the prevalence of anaemia in the under-five age group from 59% to 67.1% over the last five years. Hence, there is a need to develop guidelines for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of anaemia.