Association of iron deficiency anemia and worm infestation in school children [5-10 Yrs] in Quetta

ABSTRACT

To determine the association of iron deficiency anemia and worm infestation in school children [5-10 Years] in Quetta. This case control, randomy study was carried in 9 schools of Quetta from March till July 2009. A total of 600 children were examined, 200 each from private, Government and non formal schools [Madrassa] for anemia. Iron deficiency anemia was confirmed on CBC, retics count, peripheral smear, RBCs indices and serum ferritin level. Hb<11.5 gm/dl, CMV<25 fl, MCH<75 fl and farriten<20 nm were the cut of points. History of worm infestation was conformed by parents and children. Out of 600 children 70 were anemic, of which 30 were positive for anemia and worm infestation both, 40 were anemic without worm infestation and 87 had history of worm infestation without anemia Worm infestation in anemic children was 3.8 times greater as compared to non anemic children