Anemia in young children of the Muynak district of Karakalpakistan, Uzbekistan: Prevalence, type, and correlates

Abstract

Objectives. This study examined prevalence and correlates of anemia in the Muynak District of Uzbekistan, an area of rapidly changing social and economic conditions following the collapse of the Soviet Union. Methods. Questionnaire data and blood samples were collected on a random sample of 433 children aged 1 through 4 years. Results. The prevalence of anemia ranged from 89% in 1-year-olds to 48% in 4-year-olds. Correlates for anemia included younger age, a communal water source, and a history of pica. Conclusions. Anemia is a wide-spread problem in young children in this district. An aggressive attempt to reverse this problem is needed.