Prevalance of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia among 7-14 years old children in Samsun

Abstract

Objective: Iron deficiency (ID) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) are among the most common public health problems in the world. This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia in primary school children in Samsun city center. Methods: This study was conducted on a total of 403 primary school pupils aged between 7 and 14 years. The children in the study were divided into cities, suburbs and villages according to their settlements. Blood samples were taken for routine hemogram analysis, serum iron, iron binding capacity and serum ferritin levels during school visits. Results: A total of 403 healthy children, including 172 (42.7%) male and 231 (57.3%) female pupils were included in the study. The mean age of our cases was 10.3 +/- 2.1 years. 7-11 years old and 12-14 years ohl. In our study the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia was 9.4% (n=38) and of iron deficiency was 28.5% (n=115). According to the age groups, the prevalence rates of iron deficiency anemia were found to be 6.6% (n=18) and 15.5% (n=20) in the age groups of 7-11, and 12- 14 years (p<0.05). The prevalence rates of iron deficiency were found to be 29.9'4 (n=82), and 25.6% (n=33) in the age groups of 7-11, and 12-14 years (p>0.05). Iron deficiency anemia was detected more frequently in the suburbs (p<0.05). There was no difference between the educational level of the parents and the incidence of Iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia (p>0.05). Conclusion: Iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia continue to be a public health problem for our country. It is necessary to take preventive measures and carry out large-scale studies.