Micronutrient deficiencies according to sociodemographic factors and nutritional status among Panamanian children aged six to 59 months in 2019: a cross-sectional population- based study

Background Micronutrient deficiencies have serious lifelong consequences. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of anaemia, iron deficiency anaemia, iron deficiency, and vitamin A deficiency, according to sociodemographic factors and nutritional status among Panamanian children aged six to 59 months in 2019. Methods We used data from the National Health Survey of Panama (ENSPA), a population-based, cross-sectional study, with a nationally representative subsample to evaluate haemoglobin, C-reactive protein (CRP), ferritin, and retinol levels among children aged six to 59 months. The data are shown weighted. Findings A total of 625 children representing a population of 62,100 children (females 45.0%, 27,971/62,100; 95% CI: 37.3-53.1), aged six to 59 months were assessed. Nationally, the prevalence of anaemia was 15.5% (9604/62,100; 95% CI: 11.5-20.6), iron deficiency anaemia was 8.0% (4950/62,100; 95% CI: 5.1-12.2), iron deficiency was 26.2% (16,259/62,100; 95% CI: 20.7-32.5), and vitamin A deficiency was 3.4% (2087/62,100; 95% CI: 2.1-5.3). Children from indigenous areas exhibited a higher prevalence of all micronutrient deficiencies studied, and nationally 40.9% (2316/5656; 95% CI: 22.1-62.9) of the children with overweight/obesity exhibited at least one micronutrient deficiency. Interpretation Our results highlight important disparities in the prevalence of nutritional deficiencies among children in different living areas. Public health strategies should focus on these vulnerable populations, as the fi rst years of life are crucial for adequate growth and development.