Abstract:
Objective: This study’s aim was to estimate association between the
iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and associated risk factors among children at
Kalmunai north in Sri Lanka during COVID-19.
Material and Methods: During the pandemic, 101 children aged between
1and 14 years were involved in the cross sectional study. Hemoglobin levels,
serum ferritin and C-reactive protein (CRP) were measured to determine
anemia. Additionally, dietary intake, socioeconomic status, and demographic
information were collected through interviews with the caregivers. Chi-square
tests and Pearson correlation were used to investigate connections between
IDA and other factors such as demographic characteristics and eating habits.
In addition, a multivariate regression analysis was performed to identify
independent predictors of IDA.
Results: 7.9% of children were found to be anemic at Kalmunai Base
Hospital. Low dietary iron consumption was revealed as a significant risk factor
for IDA. Meat, liver, fish, chicken, fresh milk, dark green leafy vegetables, and
black tea were found to be independent predictors of IDA, explaining 57.7%
of the variation in IDA frequency (R2 value = 57.7%; P< 0.001). Consuming
dark green leafy vegetables, poultry, liver, beef, and fish are linked to a lower
incidence of IDA in children. On the other hand, a higher risk of IDA appears
to be associated with increased consumption of fresh milk and black tea. In
conclusion, this study focuses on Dietary factors, especially the consumption
of particular foods, were found to be significant contributors of IDA, even if
demographic parameters did not differ significantly from IDA. Strategies to
increase iron intake and dietary diversity, particularly among young children,
are critical in the fight against IDA.
