RESUMO
PURPOSE: This study aims to assess maternal level of education and nutritional practices in order to determine the risk factors related to iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in preschoolers. DESIGN AND METHODS: A descriptive correlational design was adopted. A cross-sectional sample of 100 anemic preschool children aged 36-59 months (47 girls, 53 boys) was recruited. Data were collected in structured interviews with their mothers. RESULTS: Almost half of children (47%) were moderately anemic and 53% were mildly anemic. Pearson's chi-squared test showed a significant statistical relationship between maternal educational level and hemoglobin level (χ2 = 8.820, p = 0.012). Exclusive breast feeding for the first six months was not associated significantly with low level of hemoglobin 10(χ2 = 2.696, p = 0.101). Complementary feeding had been initiated at 4 months for 30% of children with mild anemia and 24% with moderate anemia (p = 0.122). In the last 24 h there had been minimal consumption of iron absorption enhancers and relatively high consumption of iron absorption inhibitors. CONCLUSION: Our results support the relationship between level of maternal education and level of hemoglobin. However, breastfeeding was not associated with low hemoglobin level since mother had poor nutritional practices regarding breastfeeding. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: Health care providers in the southern region of Jordan are recommended to assess the level of maternal knowledge concerning IDA in preschoolers, and conduct educational sessions pertaining to IDA for those with low educational levels. Influencing factors associated with IDA among preschool children in Karak city could be elucidated by a comparative study of anemic and nonanemic preschoolers, which may give a clearer picture of the maternal nutritional practices.
