Risk factors associated with anaemia children six month to five years of age residing in a squatter settlement of Karachi

ABSTRACT

The commonest form of malnutrition in Pakistan is protein energy malnutrition followed by iron deficiency anaemia. This cross sectional study was done in a squatter settlement of Karachi to find out the risk factors associated with anaemia and prevalence of anaemia in children 6-60 months of age. The prevalence of anemia was found to be 77.9% [n=947]. For detailed interviews, 321 children were selected through systematic random sampling. Highly significant association of anaemia were found with present history of Pica [P < 0.000], diarrhea [P< .006] and weight of the child [P< 03]. In the past history beyond 3 months, significant associations were found with Pica [P< .007], growth retardation [P< .01] repeated infections [P< .01], chronic diarrhoeas [P< .000]. Our results show that if an underweight child with pica and frequent black stool gives a history of repeated infections and/or chronic diarrhea, then iron deficiency anaemia should be strongly suspected and iron therapy can be initiated with caution in these patients. Community prescription of iron and/or fortification with staple foods should be considered in high risk groups through utilization of community health workers