WIC participation and risk factors associated with anemia and iron deficiency in 12–36 month old children from low‐income families

Abstract

The prevalence of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) among pre-school age children remains relatively high in some areas across the United States. Determination of factors associated with iron deficiency (ID) is needed to allow children with identifiable risk factors to receive appropriate education, testing and follow-up. Children (12–36 mo) were recruited from the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) in 2 California counties (cross-sectional, convenience sample). Multiple logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with anemia (hemoglobin<110 g/L at 12–24 mo, <111 g/L at 24–36 mo) and ID (≥2 out of 3 abnormal values for ferritin ≤8.7 μg/L, transferrin receptors ≥8.4 μg/mL, transferrin saturation ≤13.2%), controlling for age, sex and ethnicity. Current WIC participation and greater rate of weight gain were negatively, and current maternal pregnancy was positively associated with anemia. Maternal WIC participation during pregnancy and child age were negatively while being male, living in an urban location, and <125 ml/d juice (orange/tomato) intake were positively associated with ID. Factors identified will be included in an educational intervention focused on reducing the risk factors for ID and IDA among young children. Supported in part by grants from the USDAERS and FSNEP.