Burden Of Anemia Research Articles

Persistent Immune Activation and Chronic Inflammation: Unraveling Their Impact on Anemia in HIV Infection

Persistent immune activation and chronic inflammation represent pivotal facets of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection, profoundly influencing disease progression and complications. This abstract synthesizes current knowledge to unravel the intricate interplay between persistent immune activation, chronic inflammation, and their consequential impact on the development and exacerbation of anemia among individuals living with HIV. Persistent immune activation and chronic inflammation are recognized hallmarks of HIV infection, contributing significantly to disease pathogenesis and complications. This paper aims to elucidate their intricate roles in perturbing erythropoiesis, leading to anemia, thus highlighting the pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical implications within the context of HIV. Anemia, emerging as a consequence of persistent immune activation and chronic inflammation in HIV, bears significant clinical implications. Its association with disease progression, treatment responses, and prognostic implications underscores its criticality in the comprehensive care of HIV-infected populations. Persistent immune activation and chronic inflammation intricately contribute to the pathogenesis of anemia in HIV infection. Understanding their multifaceted roles in disrupting erythropoiesis holds promise for developing targeted interventions and refining management strategies to alleviate anemia burden among individuals living with HIV. Keywords: Immune Activation, Chronic Inflammation, Anemia, HIV

Prevalence of anaemia, iron, and vitamin deficiencies in the health system in the Republic of Ireland: a retrospective cohort study.

Anaemia is a common but treatable condition that predicts adverse clinical outcomes. However, standards of anaemia management vary considerably. To estimate the prevalence of anaemia and extent of screening for common underlying causes in the healthcare system in the Republic of Ireland. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 112 181 adult patients, aged ≥18 years, who had a full blood count performed in 2013, using data from the National Kidney Disease Surveillance System. The prevalence of anaemia was determined across demographic and clinical subgroups, according to World Health Organization (WHO) definitions. The proportion screened for iron, vitamin B12, and folate deficiency was determined within a 3-month follow-up period and the corresponding prevalence for each deficiency determined. The overall prevalence of anaemia was 12.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 11.8% to 12.2%) and was higher in women than men (13.2% versus 10.5%, P<0.001). Anaemia increased with advancing age (33.4% for those aged >75 years) and worsening kidney function (8.2%, 10.9%, 33.2%, and 63.8% for each estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] categories >90, 60-89, 30-59 and <30 ml/min/1.73 m², respectively, P<0.001). After 3-months' follow-up, the proportion screened for iron deficiency was 11.2% based on transferrin saturation and 33.7% using serum ferritin. Screening for folate and B12 deficiency was 17.6% and 19.8%, respectively. Among screened patients, the prevalence of iron deficiency, B12, and folate deficiency was 37.0%, 6.3%, and 5.8%, respectively. The burden of anaemia in the healthcare system is substantial especially for older patients and those with advanced kidney disease. Low screening rates for iron, B12, and folate deficiency are common and warrant quality improvement initiatives.

The Burden of Childhood Iron Deficiency Anemia in a Developed Country: A Croatian Tertiary Care Center Experience.

Given the high prevalence of unrecognized iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in Croatia and its negative impact on children's somatic and neurological outcomes, a comprehensive preventive and treatment approach is a necessity. Methods: This was an observational, cross-sectional study of pediatric patients referred to the Children's Hospital Zagreb, Croatia, from 2017 to 2021, for IDA. Epidemiological and clinical data were extracted. Laboratory workup and therapeutic actions in the primary and tertiary care settings were recorded. The need for transfusion, parenteral iron therapy, and hospital admission was noted. A total of 299 patients (52.2% female, median five years) were seen by the hematologistin the five-year study period. Almost half (45.1%) were referred by the primary care pediatrician. Only half of the patients (56.6%) received oral iron therapy prior to referral. The preferred preparation was Dextriferron (67.7%) during the mean period of 5.8 months, but more than one-third of the patients (36.5%) were non-compliant. Every 10th child seen by the hematologist for IDA was admitted to the hospital; 6.4% required transfusion therapy, and in only one patient, parenteral iron was administered. Conclusions: The results of this survey established that IDA still represents an excessive burden in a tertiary care setting of a high-income country. Therefore, consistent implementation of national guidelines and additional education of primary healthcare providers is crucial to ameliorate this significant public health concern.

Prevalence of anemia and its associated factors among children aged 6–23 months, in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta analysis

IntroductionDespite several strategies exist for anemia prevention and control, it has been the major public health important problem in the world. Numerous immediate and long-term health issues were reported in children who have history of anemia including decreased work productivity in adult hood period. Although analyzing data on burden and risk factors of anemia are the recommended action areas of World Health Organization framework for accelerating anemia reduction, the aggregated national burden and contributors of anemia in Ethiopia has not been determined so far. There for, this systematic and meta-analysis study is aimed to assess the pooled prevalence and associated factors of anemia among children aged 6–23 months in Ethiopia.MethodsThe electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Web of Science, Science Direct, Google scholar and institutional repositories were searched using search terms. The studies that reported the prevalence and/or risk factors of anemia in children 6–23 months of age were included. The JBI quality assessment tool was used to evaluate the quality of each study. The data was extracted with Microsoft Excel, 2019 and analyzed with STATA 17.0 statistical software. A random effect model was used to estimate the pooled prevalence of anemia and its associated factors. The Cochrane Q-test statistics and I2 test were used to measure heterogeneity between the included studies. Furthermore, publication bias was examined using the funnel plot graph and statistical tests (Egger’s and begg tests). Outliers also visualized using Galbraith plot. When necessary, sensitivity analysis was also employed to detect small study effect.ResultTen studies with a total population of 14, 733 were included for analysis. The pooled prevalence of anemia among children aged 6–23 months of age in Ethiopia was found to be 57.76% (95%CI; 51.61–63.91; I2 = 97.192%; p < 0.001). Having history of diarrhea AOR = 2.44 (95%CI: 1.03–3.85), being stunted AOR = 2.00 (95%CI: 1.38–2.61), living in food insecure house hold AOR = 2.08 (95%CI: 1.10–3.07), consuming less diversified food AOR = 2.73 (95%CI: 2.06–3.39) and being 6–11 months of age AOR = 1.59 (95%CI: 1.23–1.95) were associated with anemia.Conclusion and recommendationThe prevalence of anemia is in the range of severe public health problem among children aged 6–23 months in Ethiopia. Diarrhea, stunting, house hold food insecurity, dietary diversity, and age were the predictors of anemia. Further, prospective cohort and random controlled trial studies are recommended. Further, random controlled trial especially effectiveness of nutritional education interventions trial is important. To reduce prevalence of anemia, strengthening diarrhea reduction program, securing household food insecurity, preventing stunting, giving special attention for infants age 6–11 months and encouraging food diversification are important.

Transcranial Doppler ultrasound velocities in a population of unstudied African children with sickle cell anemia.

The greatest burden of sickle cell anemia (SCA) globally occurs in sub-Saharan Africa, where significant morbidity and mortality occur secondary to SCA-induced vasculopathy and stroke. Transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD) can grade the severity of vasculopathy, with disease modifying therapy resulting in stroke reduction in high-risk children. However, TCD utilization for vasculopathy detection in African children with SCA remains understudied. The objective was to perform a prospective, observational study of TCD findings in a cohort of children with SCA from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zambia, and Malawi. A total of 770 children aged 2-17 years without prior stroke underwent screening TCD. A study was scored as low risk when the time-averaged maximum of the mean (TAMMX) in the middle cerebral artery or terminal internal carotid artery was <170cm/s but >50cm/s, conditional risk when 170-200cm/s, and high risk when>200cm/s. Low-risk studies were identified in 604 children (78%), conditional risk in 129 children (17%), and high risk in three children (0.4%). Additionally, 34 (4%) were scored as having an unknown risk study (TAMMX<50cm/s). Over the course of 15 months of follow-up, 17 children (2.2%) developed new neurologic symptoms (six with low-risk studies, seven with conditional risk, and four with unknown risk). African children with SCA in this cohort had a low rate of high-risk TCD screening results, even in those who developed new neurologic symptoms. Stroke in this population may be multifactorial with vasculopathy representing only one determinant. The development of a sensitive stroke prediction bundle incorporating relevant elements may help to guide preventative therapies in high-risk children.

Impact of Genomic Landscape and Mutational Burden on Primary Endpoint Responses in the COMMANDS Study

Background: Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS)-related anemia leads to significant morbidity, due to impaired oxygen transport and red blood cell transfusion (RBCT)-related iron overload. Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) are used to treat anemia and decrease transfusion burden and are effective in ~ 35% of patients (pts) with lower-risk (LR)-MDS. Luspatercept is approved for pts with LR-MDS refractory/intolerant to ESAs who need regular RBCTs. Primary resistance to ESAs is frequent, and ~ 70% of responders relapse in &amp;lt; 2 years. Baseline (BL) erythropoietin level ≤ 200 U/L and ≤ 2 somatic mutations are prognostic factors for better ESA response. An association of driver gene mutations with deteriorating clinical outcomes is well established in LR-MDS (Papaemmanuil E, et al. Blood 2013;122:3616-3627; Bersanelli M, et al. J Clin Oncol 2021;39:1223-1233; Nazha A, et al. J Clin Oncol 2021;39:3737-3746). The Molecular International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS-M; Bernard E, et al. NEJM Evidence 2022;1(7):EVIDoa2200008) was developed to improve upon the shortcomings of the Revised IPSS (IPSS-R) and restratified ~ 46% of pts by adding genomic profiling to existing hematologic and cytogenetic parameters. Pts with LR-MDS typically harbor a median of 2-3 driver mutations in genes involved in MDS pathogenesis. Methods: Individual pt bone marrow samples were prepared for sequencing using the Illumina ® DNA prep with enrichment and the xGen™ hybridization capture of DNA libraries. Exon coverage was ≥ 400X for 3% sensitivity. Sequencing libraries were run on the NovaSeq6000 (Illumina ®) system and statistical analyses were conducted using R. A targeted panel of 82 genes was used. Results: At BL, 322/363 pts enrolled in the COMMANDS trial had somatic mutations in ≥ 1 gene; 11 pts did not have mutation data. Most mutations had a variant allele frequency of 3%-50%. In the intent-to-treat (ITT) population, the luspatercept arm did not show any significant differences in BL mutational burden (MB, defined as the number of gene mutations from the myeloid gene panel) between responders (R) and non-responders (NR). Interestingly, R in the ESA arm trended ( P = 0.065) towards lower MB compared with NR. Subgroup analysis revealed that ring sideroblast (RS)− pts in the ESA arm had lower MB at BL (median 1 gene mutation) compared with RS+ pts (2 gene mutations; P = 0.0004). However, no significant difference was observed in the luspatercept arm. In the ITT population (and the RS+ subgroup), compared with ESAs, luspatercept showed robust responses (Figure A) in pts with 1 (63% vs 40%; Fisher's P = 0.040), 2 (70% vs 27%; Fisher's P &amp;lt; 0.001), and 3 (72% vs 40%; Fisher's P = 0.018) gene mutations. However, in the RS− subgroup, luspatercept and ESAs had similar response rates independent of MB. Interestingly, more RS− pts in the luspatercept arm had ≥ 4 gene mutations (12/47 pts [26%]) versus the ESA arm (only 3 pts [6.4%]). Furthermore, these ≥ 4 mutations were in genes associated with shorter leukemia-free survival, overall survival, and progression-free survival. Of the RS− pts in the luspatercept arm, 9/12 were NR, compared to 2/3 in the ESA arm. Luspatercept showed superior clinical benefit in pts with difficult-to-treat mutations (such as ASXL1, TET2 DNMT3A ZRSR2) and favorability in pts with mutations in SRSF2 EZH2, TP53, DTA.SF3B1.n and IDH2. Primary endpoint analysis by IPSS-M (Figure B) also showed superior clinical benefit of luspatercept across risk groups compared with ESAs: Low (75% vs 38%); Moderate low (61% vs 38%); Moderate high (44% vs 21%); and High (36% vs 24%). Conclusion: In pts in the COMMANDS trial,BL MB impacted response to ESAs but not to luspatercept. In both ITT and RS+ pts, luspatercept showed either superior or comparable clinical benefit in pts with LR-MDS with various BL MB. Interestingly, both luspatercept and ESAs had similar clinical benefit across various MB in the RS− subgroup. However, lower MB favored higher responses to ESAs in the RS− subgroup, and higher MB in genes associated with poor prognosis significantly impacted response rates in the luspatercept arm. Despite the presence of these imbalances in BL MB, RS− pts had similar response rates to luspatercept as to ESAs. Pts with LR-MDS with difficult-to-treat mutations also showed superior or favorable clinical benefit with luspatercept. Finally, luspatercept showed superior clinical benefit to ESAs in pts with LR-MDS across all IPSS-M risk groups.

Prevalence and factors associated with anemia in women of reproductive age across low- and middle-income countries based on national data

Anemia is a global threat among women of reproductive age (WRA), or 15–49 years old women, both in developed and developing countries. Prevalence of anemia in WRA is higher by fourfold in developing countries, based on extensive studies and surveys conducted by WHO and UNICEF. However, there is limited studies that conducted pooled analysis of anemia prevalence in low resource countries. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and factors associated with anemia among women of reproductive age in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This study used secondary data from the Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) in 46 low- and middle-income countries during 2010–2021. Descriptive statistics of proportions between pregnant and non-pregnant mothers were assessed. Multilevel binary logistic regression was used to test the factors associated with anemia among women of reproductive age. A total of 881,148 women of childbearing age in LMICs were included. This study found a high prevalence of 45.20% (95% CI 41.21, 49.16) of anemia was observed in among pregnant women and 39.52% (95% CI 33.88, 45.15) anemia was observed in non-pregnant women. Educational status, wealth status, family size, media exposure, and residence were common factors significantly associated with anemia in both pregnant and non-pregnant women. The high global burden of anemia in LMICs continues to underline the need for unusual approaches and target interventions on an individual basis. Global commitment and movement to reduce the prevalence of anemia need to be revisited and redesigned for current circumstances.

Assessing the prevalence and predictors of anemia among pregnant women in India: findings from the India National Family Health Survey 2019–2021

Background Anemia is more prevalent in low- and middle-income countries including India. Anemia in pregnancy is associated with increased risk of maternal health problems and adverse birth outcomes. This study estimates the prevalence and associated risk factors of anemia among pregnant women in India. Methods This cross-sectional study is based on secondary data from the India National Family Health Survey-V (NFHS-5) conducted during 2019–2021. We extracted data of 27,317 currently pregnant women to estimate the prevalence and contributory factors associated with anemia using descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis. Results The prevalence of anemia among pregnant women in India was 52.2%. Anemia was higher among adolescent women (61.5%), those with no education (59.2%), those belonging to poorest wealth index (61.9%), scheduled tribes (59.3%), and those from the eastern region of India (62.1%). Further, it was more prevalent among women with a habit of smoking, tobacco, or alcohol (63.0%), and women with shorter birth intervals (59.7%). Among Indian states, anemia prevalence was higher in the state of Bihar (63.1%) and the union territory of Ladakh (71.4%). Logistic regression models show that women with no education (aOR = 1.41, 95% CI = 1.27–1.57), belonging to a poorest wealth quintile (aOR = 1.69, 95% CI = 1.51–1.90), and those with a habit of smoking, tobacco, or alcohol (aOR = 1.39, 95% CI = 1.18–1.63) were more anemic than their counterparts. Additionally, women with no education showed a four-times higher risk of severe anemia (aOR = 4.79, 95% CI = 2.75–8.36) than their highly educated counterparts. Conclusion Anemia affects half of all pregnant women in India. Anemia prevalence is higher among adolescents, illiterate, poor, and tribal communities. Social norm-based interventions and strengthening the community health facilitators should be implemented to reduce the high burden of anemia in India.

Abstract 13847: Biomarker-Based Phenomapping in Chronic Stable HFpEF and Exercise Capacity: An Analysis of the RELAX Trial

Introduction: Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a heterogenous disease associated with low exercise capacity. Hypothesis: Unsupervised clustering of biomarker data can identify subgroups of individuals with HFpEF and differences in exercise capacity. Methods: The study included participants with chronic, stable HFpEF from the RELAX trial with available serum biomarker data. We used unsupervised hierarchical clustering analysis of 9 serum biomarkers to derive phenogroups of participants with HFpEF. Adjusted linear regression was used to assess the association between cluster membership with peak oxygen consumption (VO2), maximum exercise watts, and VO2 anaerobic threshold. Results: Among 211 participants in the RELAX trial, 3 phenogroups were identified based on the gain in within-inertia. No significant differences were observed in age, sex, or race across phenogroups. Phenogroup 1 (n=136) participants had the lowest burden of CV (cardiovascular) risk factors, including diabetes, anemia, and kidney disease as well as the lowest overall biomarkers levels ( Fig. A ). Phenogroup 2 (n=61) consisted of participants who were older with a higher burden of CV risk factors and fibrosis biomarkers, including galectin-3, collagen-I, and troponin-I levels. Phenogroup 3 (n=14) participants were younger with high burden of CV risk factors and inflammatory biomarkers including aldosterone, CRP, and uric acid. Compared with phenogroup 1, phenogroup 2 and 3 had significantly lower peak VO2, adjusted for traditional CV risk factors [estimate (95% CI): -1.99 (-2.83, -1.16) and -2.31 (-3.66, -0.95), respectively] (Fig. B ). Additionally, phenogroup 3 vs. 1 had lower exercise watts and VO2 anaerobic threshold. Conclusion: Using serum biomarkers, we identified 3 unique phenogroups of patients with chronic, stable HFpEF and significant differences in CV risk factor burden and exercise capacity.

Clinical Parameters, Anemia, and Spleen Response in Patients with MF-Related Anemia Treated with Luspatercept: Efficacy Sub-Analysis from the ACE-536-MF-001 Study

Introduction: Approximately 24% of patients with myelofibrosis (MF) have anemia requiring red blood cell (RBC) transfusion at initial diagnosis. For patients with MF, chronic anemia and RBC transfusion dependence (TD) often increase throughout the disease course and are an indicator of poor prognosis. Luspatercept (LUSPA) is an erythroid maturation agent approved to treat anemia in adults with β-thalassemia and myelodysplastic syndrome requiring RBC transfusions. Primary results from the phase 2 ACE-536-MF-001 study (NCT03194542) demonstrated reductions in MF-related anemia and transfusion dependence (Gerds et al. ASCO 2023 7016). Here we provide an extended analysis of the impact of LUSPA on clinical parameters and transfusion burden over time, and associated management of MF disease symptoms. Methods: Patients were enrolled into cohorts based on TD and ruxolitinib (RUX) treatment. Patients received LUSPA 1.0 mg/kg subcutaneously (with titration up to 1.75 mg/kg), administered on day 1 of each 21-day cycle (starting dose was 1.33 mg/kg for cohort 3B expansion). Patients were defined as TD if receiving an average of 4-12 RBC units/84 days immediately up to cycle 1 day 1 (C1D1). For non-transfusion dependent (NTD) patients, anemia was defined as 3 or more hemoglobin (Hgb) level measurements of ≤ 9.5 g/dL recorded on at least 3 different days in the 84-day period immediately preceding C1D1. The primary endpoint was anemia response, assessed at day 169 (week 24) and defined as 84 consecutive days without RBC transfusion for TD patients, and 84 consecutive days with Hgb increase of ≥ 1.5 g/dL from baseline without transfusion for NTD patients. Treatment was extended if clinical benefit was observed at day 169. Secondary and exploratory endpoints included anemia response for the entire treatment period, transfusion burden, and clinical and laboratory parameters. Results: A total of 95 patients were enrolled: cohort 1 (NTD, no RUX, n = 22), cohort 2 (TD, no RUX, n = 21), cohort 3A (NTD, RUX, n = 14), and cohort 3B (TD, RUX, n = 38). A total of 63 (66.3%) patients continued to the follow-up period. The mean (SD)/median (range) duration of treatment was 42.8 (47.6)/24.0 (2.0-232.0) weeks and mean/median (range) follow-up duration after first dose was 101.1/78.0 (2.1-232.1) weeks. Anemia response was seen across all cohorts. Among transfusion-dependent patients (cohorts 2 and 3B), transfusion independence ≥ 12 weeks was observed in 4 (19.0%, 95% CI 5.45-41.91) and 12 (31.6%, 95% CI 17.5-48.7) patients, respectively, in the entire treatment period. Additionally, approximately half of patients with TD achieved a 50% reduction in transfusion burden; 10 (47.6%) patients in cohort 2 and 20 (52.6%) patients in cohort 3B had ≥ 50% reduction in transfusion burden over any 84-day period in the entire treatment period, including 16 patients from cohorts 2 and 3B who achieved transfusion independence (100% reduction) (Figure). Changes in laboratory parameters of Hgb, serum erythropoietin, serum ferritin, and platelet count at day 169 are summarized in the Table; in addition, patients with clinical benefit continuing LUSPA treatment after day 169 showed ferritin decreases with longer follow-up from cycle 13 (n = 20) to cycle 33 (n = 6). Additionally, there was minimal (~1 cm) to no increase in median spleen size across patients in all cohorts. Of the 3 patients in cohort 3B who increased their RUX dose during LUSPA treatment, spleen size remained stable, with a -4.0 cm, 1.0 cm, and 3.0 cm change from baseline during the entire treatment period, respectively. Conclusions: In the phase 2 ACE-536-MF-001 study, LUSPA demonstrated improvements in anemia and transfusion burden in patients with MF. Further analysis of clinical and laboratory parameters may reveal differences between responders and non-responders. Spleen size stability was observed in all patients; this suggests that LUSPA does not worsen splenomegaly and may support continual use of RUX for MF disease and symptoms. Study support: Bristol Myers Squibb.

The Specific Transcriptional Signature and Clonal Selection of MGUS-like Profile Predict an Exceptionally Favorable Prognosis in Patients with Newly-Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma

Background: Achieving undetectable minimal residual disease (MRD) has been considered a functional cure in multiple myeloma (MM), emphasizing the clinical importance of depth and duration of remission. Interestingly, a subset of myeloma patients presents with an MGUS-like status, characterized by persistent M-component or detectable MRD despite systematic treatment. Surprisingly, these patients exhibit an indolent disease course and experience unexpectedly long survival (PFS ≥ 5 years). Nevertheless, the specific genomic characteristics of their tumor cells, immune microenvironment, and clonal evolution patterns are still inadequately explored. Methods: This study utilizes data from the National Longitudinal Cohort of Hematological Diseases in China (NCT04645199) to investigate the unique MGUS-like cohort. This cohort comprises patients who achieved functional cure (PFS ≥ 5 years) but retained MGUS-like features. We conducted DNA and RNA sequencing of sorted plasma cells to elucidate the specific transcriptional and genomic profiles and clonal evolution patterns, aiming to shed light on the underlying mechanisms and enable individualized treatment approaches. Results: In the study cohort, only 6.4% (35/548) exhibited the MGUS-like profile, characterized by younger age, low tumor burden, infrequent anemia and bone lesions, and stable cytogenetics. Intriguingly, the MGUS-like cohort demonstrated consistently favorable prognoses regardless of response depth, unlike classical MM patients. Analysis of the intrinsic features of tumor cells revealed a distinct transcriptome for the MGUS-like group compared to classical MM. Subsequently, we identified a MGUS-like transcriptional gene signature that effectively discriminated a rare cohort with excellent survival, irrespective of remission depth, in the MMRF database. Notably, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) analysis revealed the upregulation of genes involved in the adaptive immune response, T cell activation, natural killer cell-mediated immunity, and erythrocyte differentiation, along with the downregulation of genes involved in protein folding. These biological differences potentially account for the unprecedented favorable prognosis due to an activated immune microenvironment and distinct clinical features such as reduced anemia and low tumor burden. Furthermore, genomic analysis of sequential samples from MGUS-like patients demonstrated that most mutations and copy number alterations became undetectable in residual tumor cells or during relapse, suggesting clonal selection of indolent tumor clones in MGUS-like patients. Conclusions: The rare MGUS-like population exhibits unique clinical features and an exceptionally favorable prognosis with limited treatment. Utilizing the distinct tumor transcriptome and specific clonal selection pattern, early identification of MGUS-like patients could facilitate precise individualized treatment strategies.

Impact of eHealth education to reduce anemia among school-going adolescent girls in rural Bangladesh: Study protocol of a randomized controlled trial.

Adolescent girls are highly vulnerable to developing anemia due to reproductive immaturity, poor personal hygiene, and lack of nutritional intake and health education in rural Bangladesh. Digital health technology is a promising tool to overcome barriers and provide appropriate health guidelines. We aim to evaluate eHealth education's impact and changes in adolescent girls' knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding anemia. A 1:1 parallel randomized control trial was conducted among school-going adolescent girls in rural Bangladesh. A total of 138 anemic (mild and moderate) participants were enrolled. We randomized schools to reduce the health education bias through a simple coin toss technique, then allocated participants to the intervention group (n = 69) and control group (n = 69) by stratified random sampling technique. The intervention group received two online counseling sessions and 8-month eHealth education through mobile phone calls and short message service regarding anemia. The control group received the usual care. The primary endpoint changes the anemic level through changing knowledge, healthy lifestyle behavior, and an iron-rich food dietary plan. Per-protocol analysis will utilize to compare the control and intervention groups using SPSS software. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, mean, SD) will be employed, and continuous variables will be compared using the t-test/Mann-Whitney test. Two-way analysis of variance will assess outcome variables at baseline, 4 months, and 8 months. The 8-month intervention is designed from May 2022 to February 2023. Participants' age range of 10-14 years was 60.9% in the intervention group and 56.5% in the control group. Among the participants, 89.9% and 88.4% were mild anemic; 11.11 (SD ± 0.80) and 11.06 (SD ± 0.96) were mean hemoglobin in the intervention and control groups, respectively. eHealth education is expected to be an effective way to increase knowledge and healthy behavioral change, which can reduce the anemia burden among adolescent girls.

Social and ecological disparities in anaemia among adolescent girls 15-19 years old in Nepal.

Adolescent girls are at risk of anaemia due to increased nutrient demands because of growth, menstrual blood loss and possible pregnancies. Sociocultural and household conditions influence their anaemia risk. We aimed to identify the sociocultural and economic factors associated with anaemia among adolescent girls in Nepal. The Nepal Demographic and Health Surveys (NDHS) conducted in 2006, 2011 and 2016 were pooled for secondary analysis. We used data on haemoglobin measurements for anaemia and conducted bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses to identify factors associated with anaemia. Nationally representative NDHS households with adolescent girls 15-19 years of age. Non-pregnant adolescent girls 15-19 years, with a haemoglobin measurement (n = 3731). The overall prevalence of anaemia among adolescent girls was 39·6 %. Adolescents from socially disadvantaged caste/ethnicity groups were 1·42 times (95 % CI: 1·13, 1·78) more likely to have anaemia compared with those from Brahmin/Chhetri households. We found a counter-intuitive association between socio-economic status and anaemia where adolescents from the middle (adjusted OR (aOR) 1·37, 95 % CI: 1·01, 1·85) and highest (aOR 1·74, 95 % CI: 1·18, 2·56) quintiles were at increased odds of anaemia. Relative geographical inequality was observed where adolescents from the Terai region had 3·5 times (95 % CI: 2·32, 5·33) higher odds of anaemia. The disparities in the distribution of anaemia among adolescents by caste/ethnicity groups, wealth quintiles and geographical regions are evident. Reducing the anaemia burden will require addressing the social determinants of anaemia by allocating resources and expanding anaemia prevention programmes to target adolescents at higher risk.

In-hospital mortality attributable to severe anaemia and associated clinical signs in children admitted at hospitals in Bushenyi district

Severe anaemia is one of the important causes of admissions and deaths among children in majority of African countries, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. East Africa is one of the regions that have the highest burden of anaemia in the world. In Uganda, severe anaemia complicates one third of hospital admissions and with associated increased mortality. Many of the studies on severe anaemia which have done in Uganda are community based and on specific populations like HIV infected children. This study described the in-hospital mortality attributable to severe anaemia and associated clinical signs among children admitted at all hospitals in Bushenyi district. This was a cross sectional descriptive and analytical study that consecutively enrolled 225 children aged 2 months to 12 years admitted at hospitals in Bushenyi district, Kampala International University Teaching Hospital, Comboni Hospital and Ishaka Adventist Hospital from April 2017 to December 2017. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using STATA version 14. We determined the proportion of children who had severe anaemia and died in the course of admission and the clinical signs at admission that were associated with mortality using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression. The proportion of severely anaemia children who died was 8.4%. The clinical signs at admission that were independently associated with mortality were coma [aOR=5.97, (95%CI, 1.94-18.36), p=&lt;0.002] and tachypnea [aOR=6.02, (95%CI, 1.44-25.14), p=&lt;0.014]. The in-hospital mortality attributable to severe anaemia among children admitted to hospitals in Bushenyi district is high. The clinical signs at admission that were significantly associated with mortality were tachypnea and coma. We therefore recommend that clinicians should routinely do hemoglobin concentration screening for all admitted children and give the appropriate emergency and long term management. Clinicians may use coma and tachycardia to triage severely anaemic children.

The impacts of anemia burden on clinical outcomes in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) has low survival rates, and few patients achieve a desirable neurological outcome. Anemia is common among OHCA patients and has been linked to worse outcomes, but its impact following the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) is unclear. This study examines the relationship between anemia burden and clinical outcomes in OHCA patients. Higher anemia burden after ROSC may be related to higher mortality and worse neurologic outcomes. Patients who experienced OHCA and had ROSC were enrolled retrospectively. Anemia burden was defined as the area under curve from the target hemoglobin level over a 72-h period after OHCA. Hemoglobin level was measured at 12-h intervals. The clinical outcomes of the study included mortality and neurological outcomes at Day 30. The study enrolled 258 nontraumatic OHCA patients who achieved ROSC between January 2017 and December 2021. Among the 162 patients who survived more than 72 h, a higher anemia burden, specifically target hemoglobin levels below 7 (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.129, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.013-1.259, p = .029), 8 (HR: 1.099, 95% CI: 1.014-1.191, p = .021), and 9 g/dL (HR: 1.066, 95% CI: 1.001-1.134, p = .046) was associated with higher 30-day mortality. Additionally, anemia burden with target hemoglobin levels below 7 (HR: 1.129, 95% CI: 1.016-1.248; p = .024) and 8 g/dL (HR: 1.088; 95% CI: 1.008-1.174, p = .031) was linked to worse neurological outcomes. Anemia burden predicts 30-day mortality and neurological outcomes in OHCA patients who survive more than 72 h. Maintaining higher hemoglobin levels within the first 72 h after ROSC may improve short-term outcomes.

The burden of anemia among Chinese HIV-infected patients following the initiation of antiretroviral therapy in the treat-all era: a nationwide cohort study

BackgroundTo assess the prevalence of anemia before and after antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation and to identify impact of anemia on mortality among HIV-infected patients in China during the Treat-All era.MethodsAll HIV-infected patients who newly initiated ART between January 1, 2017 and December 31, 2020 were enrolled and followed up to December 31, 2021 in China. We analyzed the prevalence of anemia before and after ART initiation. Generalized estimating equations were fitted to determine factors associated with anemia after ART. Time-dependent cox proportional hazards models were performed to estimate the effect of anemia on death.ResultsOf 436,658 patients at the baseline of ART initiation, the overall prevalence of anemia was 28.6%. During a median 2.65 (IQR: 1.80–3.51) years of follow-up after ART initiation, 376,325 (86.2%) patients had at least one Hb measurement (a total of 955,300 hemoglobin measurements). The annual prevalence of anemia after ART was 17.0%, 14.1%, 13.4%, 12.6% and 12.7%, respectively. Being anemic at the baseline of ART initiation (adjusted odds ratio, aOR = 6.80, 95% confidence interval (CI): 6.67–6.92) was the strongest factor associated with anemia after ART. Anemia status after ART showed a strong association with death after multivariable adjustment (mild anemia: adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 2.65, 95% CI: 2.55–2.76; moderate anemia: aHR = 4.60; 95% CI:4.40–4.81; severe anemia: aHR = 6.41; 95% CI:5.94–6.91).ConclusionsIn the era of ART universal access, pre-ART anemia was common among HIV-infected patients. Notably, a certain proportion of anemia still persisted after ART, and was significantly associated with death. We recommend strengthening the monitoring of patients at risk of anemia, especially in patients with baseline anemia or during the first year of ART, and timely treatment for correcting anemia.

Burden of Anemia among Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Positive Adults on Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy at Hawassa University Compressive Specialized Hospital, Hawassa, Ethiopia.

Anemia is the most common hematologic abnormality associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients and affects 60% to 80% of patients in late-stage disease. It has a considerable impact on the progression of HIV to advanced stages. This study aimed at assessing the burden of anemia in adult HIV-infected patients who are on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and have follow-up at Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (HUCSH) Antiretroviral therapy (ART) clinic. A hospital-based retrospective study was conducted among HIV-positive adults on HAART at Hawassa University Compressive Specialized Hospital. The systematic sampling method was used to choose a total of 244 study participants. Data on demographic characteristics, related factors of anemia, latest hemoglobin, CD4, and ART regimens were collected using a structured data abstraction format. The data were cleaned and analyzed using SPSS version 21.0 after being manually checked for completeness. Multivariable logistic regression was carried out to detect elements associated with anemia. A P value of <0.05 was used as a cutoff point to announce statistical significance. The records of 244 patients were examined in total. Anemia was present in 29.9% (95% CI 23.8-35.2) among adult HIV patients. Female sex (AOR: 2.576, 95% (CI: 1.295-5.127)), having tuberculosis (TB) (AOR: 4.873, 95% (CI: 1.534-15.484)), taking a zidovudine (ZDV)-containing ART regimen (AOR: 5.216, 95% (CI: 1.239-21.962)), having clinical WHO stage IV and III diseases (AOR: 3.077, 95% CI (1.244-7.612)), having body mass index (BMI) <18.5 kg/m2 (AOR: 2.391, 95% (CI: 1.138-5.023)), and taking cotrimoxazole prophylaxis (AOR: 3.860 95% (CI: 1.097-13.576)) were substantially linked to the development of anemia among adult HIV patients. Conclusion and Recommendation. This study showed that anemia is still a problem among HIV patients on HAART. The burden of anemia was found to be high among patients with advanced WHO clinical stages, having a BMI less than 18.5 kg/m2, TB/HIV coinfection, being on AZT-based ART regimens, and taking cotrimoxazole preventive therapy (CPT). Consequently, it is suggested that early preventative interventions, such as serial hemoglobin follow-up, iron supplementation, and education about dietary consumption, be undertaken targeting the aforementioned groups. In addition, the preferred first-line ART regimen as per the latest national and WHO guidelines is recommended, especially for the above groups.

Anemia burden in pregnancy and birth outcomes among women receiving antenatal care services from a secondary level hospital in South India: A record review

ABSTRACT Introduction: Anaemia in pregnant women is a major public health problem and is associated with adverse outcomes both in pregnant mothers and new-borns. According to NFHS-5, 45.7% of women in urban India were affected by anaemia during their pregnancy. The objectives of this study were to estimate the proportion of pregnant women who were anaemic and its effect on maternal and birth outcomes, and additionally, to assess the various socio-economic factors contributing to anaemia during pregnancy. Methodology: Data was collected by reviewing records between December 2018 and December 2021 of 302 pregnant women who had received antenatal care at a secondary level health facility in Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu. The data included details of socio-economic parameters, parity, haemoglobin levels, mode of delivery, pregnancy related complications during the antenatal period and during delivery, including need for blood transfusions in mothers. Birth-related outcomes like miscarriages, intra-uterine death, low birth weight (LBW), need for NICU admission and congenital defects were also analysed. Variables in the study are described as frequencies and proportions. Appropriate tests were used to check for association and a P- value of less than 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: The mean age of the women was 24 ± 3.72 years and the mean Haemoglobin level during the first trimester was 10.5 ± 1.12 gm/dl. The proportion of women with anaemia in the first trimester was 174 (57.6%). Among the anaemics, 15 (8.6%) required treatment in the form of injectable iron and 29 (16.7%) required blood transfusion. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) (31.6%) (P &lt; 0.05), preeclampsia (38.9%) (P &lt; 0.02) less among anaemic. Hyperemesis (66.7%) (P = 0.58), risk of miscarriage (57.8%) (P = 0.94), postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) (80.0%) (P = 0.15) was higher in the anaemic group. Adverse Neonatal-related outcomes such as low birth weight babies (52.0%) (P = 0.54), meconium aspiration (72.7%) (P = 0.25) and need for NICU admission (75.0%) (P = 0.25) was higher in babies born to anaemic pregnant women. Conclusions: The proportion of anaemic women was 57.6%. There was no significant difference in maternal demographic characteristics or obstetric factors between anaemic and non-anaemic pregnant women. GDM, pre-eclampsia was less prevalent among anaemic women. Hyperemesis, risk of abortion, postpartum haemorrhage and low birth weight (LBW) infants was higher in anaemic pregnancies. The need for providing education regarding iron supplementation and early detection of anaemia during pregnancy should be emphasised to avoid complications.

Global warming may significantly increase childhood anemia burden in sub-Saharan Africa

Childhood anemia constitutes a global public health problem, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). However, it remains unknown whether global warming has an impact on childhood anemia. Here, we examined the association between annual temperatures and childhood anemia prevalence in sub-Saharan Africa and then projected childhood anemia burden attributable to climate change. Each 1°C increment in annual temperature was associated with increased odds of childhood anemia (odd ratio = 1.138, 95% confidence interval: 1.134-1.142). Compared with the baseline period (1985-2014), the attributable childhood anemia cases would increase by 7,597 per 100,000 person-years under a high-emission scenario in the 2090s, which would be almost 2-fold and over 3-fold more than those projected in moderate- and low-emission scenarios. Our results reveal the vulnerabilities and inequalities of children for the excess burden of anemia due to climate warming and highlight the importance of climate mitigation and adaptation strategies in LMICs.

Correlation between hemoglobin levels of mothers and children aged less than two years attending the immunization clinics in Puducherry: a cross-sectional analytical study

Background: Insufficient attention has been paid to the impact of maternal anemia on the hemoglobin status of children. This study aimed to estimate the correlation between the hemoglobin levels of mother’s antenatal and their current hemoglobin levels with the hemoglobin levels of their children and to find the co-occurrence of anemia among the family members of the children. Methods: A total of 200 children aged nine months to two years with their mothers were enrolled in the immunization clinics in a tertiary care hospital, and from health centres attached to it. For assessing the triple burden of anemia within the family members of the children, 50 mother-child-sibling triads were approached. The hemoglobin values of the mothers during their third trimester in the antenatal period was noted from the antenatal records. Results: 62% of the children aged less than two years were anemic and the mean hemoglobin level of the children was 10.33±1.33 gm/dl. The correlation between hemoglobin levels of children and mothers during their antenatal period was 0.15 (p: 0.03, 95% CI: 0.007 to 0.279) and 0.10 (p: 0.15, 95% CI: -0.038 to 0.236) was the correlation between current hemoglobin levels of children and mothers. 7 (14%) mother-child-sibling triads had co-occurrence of anemia in the sub-sample of 50. Conclusions: The multiple linear regression analysis confirmed that there is a weak correlation between the hemoglobin levels of mothers and children. We concluded that treating an anemic individual in a family can somehow prevent anemia in other family members.