Abstract
The primary objectives of this research were to estimate the prevalence of anaemia and low haematocrit among preschool children living in Karachi. Through a geographically stratified design, 349 children aged 36–60 months were selected, from five communities in and near Karachi. Blood samples were drawn from children and a questionnaire was administered to evaluate various demographic and socioeconomic characteristics. Chi-square test and multiple logistic regression procedures were used to compare the prevalence of anaemia and low haematocrit among various strata. The overall prevalence of anaemia and low haematocrit were 55.9 and 48.4%, respectively. Children living in the rural community had the highest prevalence of anaemia (78.7%) and low haematocrit (63.8%). Children aged 36–48 months had also higher prevalence of anaemia and low haematocrit. Children's nutritional status was significantly associated with both anaemia and low haematocrit. We recommend appropriate interventions to reduce the burden of these conditions in Pakistan.
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