Prevalance of anemia among children

Objective: In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalance of anemia among patients at university hospital in Balikesir City. Methods: 563 cases, without any chronic illness, who had been examined at outpatient pediatrics clinic of our hospital were retrospectically evaluated for the prevalence of anemia prevelance by perusing hospital records. Results: 265 (47.1%) of 563 cases who were consulted to our hospital were female and 298 (52.9%) were male. The mean age of the patients was 5.9+/-4.2 (5 mos-18 yrs) years. The mean hemoglobin value was 12.5+/-1.2 mg/dl (8.3-18 mg/dl). Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) was detected as 78.9+/-5.7 fL (56.9-101.9 fL). Mean red cell distrubition width (RDW) was 13.9+/-1.6 % (7.3-31.3%). Signs of anemia were present in 117 (20.8%), and iron deficiency anemia in 35 (6.2%) cases. Conclusion: Although anemia is common at all ages, it is mostly seen in children under two years old, due to iron deficiency. Anemia affects growth, development and cognitive functions. Thus iron supplementation is essential for prophylaxis and treatment.