Prevalence Of Iron Deficiency Anemia Research Articles

Prevalence of Iron Deficiency Anemia among Different Age Groups in Duhok City, Kurdistan region, Iraq

Prevalence of Iron Deficiency Anemia among Different Age Groups in Duhok City, Kurdistan region, Iraq

Prevalence and predictors of iron deficiency anaemia among children with sickle cell disease in Dodoma, Tanzania: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundPatients with sickle cell disease (SCD) are prone to iron profile derangements. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) and their predictors among children with SCD aged between 6 months and 14 years. Assessment of the prevalence of IDA and its predictors helps to understand ways of alleviating the magnitude of the problem so as to prevent possible complications such as shortness of breath and chest pain.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional analytical hospital-based study which included 174 patients with SCD attending SCD clinics at St. Gema hospital and Dodoma regional referral hospital in Dodoma city from October 2020 to March 2021. The cut-off points for detection of IDA was serum ferritin level < 30 µg/L and low mean corpuscular volume (MCV) for age. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 25.0. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine the predictors of IDA. P-value less than 0.05 was considered significant.ResultsThe prevalence of IDA in this study was (16.1%, n = 28). Family income of less than 70,000/= TZS/month (AOR = 2.2, 95% CI = 1.07–2.49, p = 0.023), being transfused with blood less than 3 times from the time of being diagnosed with SCD (AOR = 5.5, 95% CI = 1.03–8.91, p = 0.046), and eating red meat at least once per month (AOR = 3.60, 95% CI = 1.37–9.46, p = 0.010) remained the independent predictors of IDA in multivariate regression analysis.ConclusionThe findings of this study have shown that, support of families with children suffering from SCD in terms of financial support for improving medical services including optimal blood transfusion and affordability of diet which is rich in iron such as red meat is imperative.

Iron Insights: Exploring Age-Specific Variations In Anaemia Prevalence In Islamabad

Background &amp; Introduction: Blood, a specialized connective tissue, facilitates the vital transport of oxygen, carbon dioxide, minerals, hormones, and salts throughout the body. Anemia, characterized by reduced oxygen-carrying capacity, often stems from factors such as diminished red blood cell (RBC) synthesis or excessive blood loss. Notably, iron deficiency stands out as a prominent cause, particularly among females of reproductive age, due to factors like inadequate dietary iron intake and menstrual blood loss. Objectives: This study aims to assess the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in both males and females across different age groups. Specifically, we seek to determine the frequency of IDA and its distribution among age cohorts spanning 6-12 years, 13-19 years, and 20-50 years. Methodology: Employing a cross-sectional study design, we surveyed a population of 2071 individuals, selecting a sample of 3[1]24 participants through non-probability convenient sampling methods. Descriptive statistics, facilitated by SPSS, guided our analysis. Hematological parameters including hemoglobin (HB) levels, RBC count, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) were evaluated to ascertain the hematological status of the study cohort. Results: Our findings reveal notable trends in IDA prevalence across age groups. Among participants aged 16-30 years, IDA incidence stood at 51%, whereas the 31-35 years age group exhibited a 26% prevalence, and the 46-60 years age group recorded a 23% incidence of IDA. Additionally, our analysis indicates a higher prevalence of IDA among females, constituting 65% of all IDA cases, particularly pronounced in the reproductive age bracket of 16-30 years. Conclusion: The study underscores a gender-based discrepancy in IDA prevalence, with females exhibiting a higher incidence compared to males. Notably, females within the reproductive age range of 16-30 years emerge as a particularly vulnerable demographic. These findings emphasize the importance of targeted interventions to address iron deficiency, especially among at-risk populations.

Clinical Application of Reticulocyte Maturity Indices in Early Diagnosis of Iron Deficiency Anemia in the First Trimester of Pregnancy

Background: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a prevalent global health issue, particularly affecting pregnant females due to increased iron demands during pregnancy. In Pakistan, IDA remains a significant concern, posing challenges to maternal and child health. Early detection and management of iron deficiency are crucial for improving pregnancy outcomes.&#x0D; Objective: This study aims to investigate the iron status and associated hematological parameters among pregnant females during the first trimester in Islamabad, Pakistan.&#x0D; Methodology : This cross-sectional study, conducted in collaboration with the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) and the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), aimed to investigate the iron status among first-trimester pregnant females in Islamabad, Pakistan.Laboratory investigations encompassed hemoglobin and serum ferritin assays, reticulocyte counts, and other red blood cell parameters. Participants were categorized into distinct iron status groups based on these evaluations. Utilizing SPSS version 25, statistical analysis followed ethical protocols, striving to uncover discrepancies in hematological parameters across the various iron status groups.&#x0D; Results : Among 340 first-trimester pregnant women, three iron status groups were identified. Group 1 (n = 102) had low ferritin despite normal Hb, with elevated immature reticulocytes. Group 2 (n = 150) showed normal iron parameters, while Group 3 (n = 88) had high reticulocyte counts. Group 2 exhibited superior erythrocyte indices and higher ferritin levels than Groups 1 and 3. Group 3 displayed the poorest indices and elevated immature reticulocytes. These findings highlight variations in iron status and reticulocyte maturation among pregnant women.&#x0D; Conclusion: This study underscores the high prevalence of iron deficiency anemia among first-trimester pregnant females in Islamabad, Pakistan. Variations in red blood cell parameters and serum ferritin levels highlight the importance of early iron status assessment for optimizing maternal and foetal health outcomes.

Iron Supplementation of Pregnant Sows to Prevent Iron Deficiency Anemia in Piglets: A Procedure of Questionable Effectiveness.

In pigs, iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a common disorder that occurs during the early postnatal period, leading to the stunted growth and increased mortality of piglets. The main cause of IDA is low iron stores in the liver of newborn piglets; these stores constitute the main source of iron needed to satisfy the erythropoietic requirements of the piglets in their first weeks of life. Insufficient iron stores in piglets are usually due to the inadequate placental iron transfer from the sow to the fetuses. Therefore, iron supplementation in pregnant sows has been implemented to enhance placental iron transfer and increase iron accumulation in the liver of the fetuses. Over the years, several oral and parenteral approaches have been attempted to supplement sows with various iron preparations, and consequently, to improve piglets' red blood cell indices. However, there is debate with regard to the effectiveness of iron supplementation in pregnant sows for preventing IDA in newborn piglets. Importantly, this procedure should be carried out with caution to avoid iron over-supplementation, which can lead to iron toxicity. This article aims to critically review and evaluate the use of iron supplementation in pregnant sows as a procedure for preventing IDA in piglets.

Iron deficiency anemia in hospitalized children

Iron is an abundant element on earth. It is used by nearly all forms of life from micro-organisms to humans for their developmental and survival as it is part of many enzymes involved in biological processes such as DNA synthesis, oxygen transport, and cellular energy production. Anemia is the most widely recognized manifestation of iron deficiency. This study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia, based on age, in 200 hospitalized children 0-14 years old. Hemoglobin &lt;12g/dL was found in 54.5% of children, 69% of the children 0-2years old had Hb&lt;12g/dL, 51% of the children 2-6years old had Hb&lt;12g/dL, and 19% of the children 6-14years old had Hb&lt;12g/dL. In conclusion iron deficiency anemia is prevalent in hospitalized children, infants are the group mostly affected. Iron deficiency anemia is a major health concern as it increases risk of child morbidity, impairs cognitive and physical developmental in children and reduces school performance. It is an easily treated medical condition with excellent outcome, so a meticulous clinical attention and evaluation should be kept for children of any age.

Prevalence of Overweight/Obesity Associated With Anemia Among Female Medical Students at Umm Al-Qura University in Makkah, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Introduction The obesity epidemic has been linked to a wide range of health and nutritional problems, including anemia, which is often caused by impaired iron metabolism. The World Health Organization considers anemia and obesity to be global health issues among adolescent girls and women experiencing menstruation. This study aims to examine the association between iron deficiency anemia and obesity/overweight among female medical students. Methodology This cross-sectional descriptive study conducted as an online self-administered questionnaire. Furthermore, blood samples were collected from 206 students to evaluate the complete blood count, iron and lipid profile. Results The convenience sampling technique was used and a total of 206 students were enrolled in the study. The average body mass index (BMI) was 22.51 ± 3.25, with 83.5% (n = 172) falling within the normal weight range, 12.6% (n = 26) as overweight, and 3.9% (n = 8) as obese. Anemia was present in 16.0% (n = 33) of the participants overall. Higher prevalence of anemia was observed among overweight participants with 10 out of 26 (38.5%) subjects compared to obese with two out of eight (25.0%) and normal weight 21 out of 172 (12.2%); this difference was highly significant (P = 0.005). Individuals with anemia exhibited a significant association with those experiencing a diet full of unhealthy fats and carbohydrates (P = 0.05) and a diet containing all essential nutrients (P = 0.01). There is no statistically significant correlation between anemia prevalence and participants' response to the presence of signs of anemia, physical activity or other dietary habits. Obese participants had a significantly higher mean value of triglycerides (129.5 ± 20.5) compared to normal weight and overweight participants (74.5 ± 12.02 and 51.2 ± 15.04), respectively (P = 0.001). Conclusion A dependable assembly exists between obesity and overweight in cases of iron deficient anemia. The prevalence of iron deficiency anemia was substantially higher among overweight/obese females, highlighting that overweight/obesity signifies both quantitative and qualitative malnutrition. A high BMI was associated with elevated triglycerides, typically considered indicators of obesity. This association may suggest compromised iron homeostasis.

The Potency of Typical Plants of Central Sulawesi Province to Prevent Iron Deficiency Anemia: Experimental Study

Background: Central Sulawesi falls within the Wallacea region, making it home to various endemic flora and fauna. One distinctive plant in Central Sulawesi is the Moringa tree. The Moringa tree, especially its leaves, was often used as a culinary ingredient known as sayurkelor in the traditional cuisine of the Kaili ethnic group in Central Sulawesi Province. Objective: This research aimed to determine the effectiveness of moringa leaf extract in increasing hemoglobin levels and erythrocyte count. Method: Twenty-four male Wistar rats strain (Rattusnorvegicus) 9−10 weeks old and 200−250 grams were divided into four groups (n=6), normal as a no treatment, negative control, ethanol extract, and positive control during the 15thday. Blood samples on the 15thday were administered to determine blood count. Result: The resultsof this study showed differences in hemoglobin and erythrocyte levels in the four experimental groups.The significant difference in average hemoglobin levels between Group 2 and Group 3 with a P-value &lt;0.05 (P value 0.00). The difference between Group 2 and Group 4 is significant with a P-value &lt;0.05 (P value 0.00), and the difference between Group 3 and Group 4 is significant with a P-value &lt;0.05 (P value 0.03). the significant difference in the average erythrocyte counts between Group 2 and Group 3 with a P-value &lt;0.05 (P value 0.00). The difference between Group 2 and Group 4 is not significant with a P-value &gt;0.05 (P value 0.07). The difference between Group 3 and Group 4 has a P-value &gt;0.05 (P value 0.63). Conclusion: The research results indicate that pregnant Wistar rats experienced hemodilution characterized by a decrease in hemoglobin and erythrocyte levels during pregnancy. However, after being given ethanol extract from moringa leaves, there was an increase in hemoglobin and erythrocyte levels. Keywords: Extract; ethanol; moringa; oleifera; hemoglobin

The effect of Dadih for the prevention of iron deficiency anemia in adolescent girls 12-15 years old

Adolescent girls are at risk of developing iron deficiency anemia. Dadih has high nutritional value and iron and probiotics. This study aimed to analyze the effect of administering Dadih to prevent iron deficiency anemia in adolescent girls aged 12-15. This study used a randomized controlled trial pre-posttest group design, which consisted of an intervention and control group totalling 40 participants taken randomly at the Sumatera Thawalib Parabek Bukittinggi Islamic Boarding School from February to June 2023. In both groups, serum ferritin and hemoglobin levels were measured before and after treatment for 14 days. The intervention group was administered 100 g of Dadih 1x a day, and the control group was administered a placebo. Data analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon statistical and Paired T-test at a 95%CI. Results: There was a significant difference in the hemoglobin levels before and after treatment (p=0,003). There was no significant difference in serum ferritin levels before and after treatment (p=0,191). In conclusion, the administration of 100 g of dadih did not increase serum ferritin and hemoglobin levels, and the independent administration of 100 g of Dadih to prevent iron deficiency anemia still needs to be considered.

The association between iron deficiency anemia and cognitive abilities among female university students

&lt;b&gt;Introduction:&lt;/b&gt; Iron deficiency is a serious condition occurring when the human body’s total iron is less than the normal amount (three-four g). This study aimed to find the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and its association with cognitive abilities among female students. A cross-sectional study was carried out on 198 female students recruited using convenience sampling from Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University.&lt;br /&gt; &lt;b&gt;Materials &amp;amp; methods:&lt;/b&gt; A food frequency questionnaire and cognitive abilities tests were used to collect the required information.&lt;br /&gt; &lt;b&gt;Results:&lt;/b&gt; The results showed that the prevalence of IDA was 27.4%. The cognitive abilities parameters of immediate memory, working memory, speed of attention, and accuracy of attention for 50.0% of the students were 24, 16, 194, and three, respectively.&lt;br /&gt; &lt;b&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/b&gt; No significant association between IDA and cognitive abilities was noted. Therefore, more studies are needed to explore the association between iron-supplemented diet and cognitive function.

FETO/Maternal Complications in Iron Deficiency Anemia during Pregnancy and Labor

Background: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a prevalent nutritional disorder globally, especially in developing countries, impacting both maternal and fetal health. The condition exacerbates the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including increased morbidity and mortality rates. Objective: This study aimed to examine the prevalence and impact of IDA on feto-maternal health during pregnancy and labor, as well as to evaluate the efficacy of antenatal care programs in managing this condition. Methods: A six-month cross-sectional study was conducted at Shaikh Zayad Hospital, Larkana, from October 2021 to March 2022. Fifty pregnant women, ranging from primigravida to multigravida, were recruited through emergency and outpatient departments. Comprehensive data collection included demographic information, clinical history, and a full spectrum of laboratory tests for IDA. The severity of anemia and related complications were assessed, and the collected data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Results: Of the participants, 74% suffered from moderate anemia, while 12% and 14% had mild and severe anemia, respectively. Serum ferritin levels indicated iron deficiency in 40% of the women, with an elevated total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) in 60% of cases. Maternal complications were prevalent, with 52% encountering unspecified emergency conditions and 16% experiencing postpartum hemorrhage. Fetal complications included intrauterine growth restriction (30%), intrauterine death (18%), and neonatal death (10%). Conclusion: IDA presents a significant health risk during pregnancy, correlated with a high incidence of maternal and fetal complications. This study emphasizes the importance of proactive management and monitoring of iron levels throughout pregnancy. Establishing comprehensive antenatal care that includes nutritional education and iron supplementation is crucial for preventing IDA and improving pregnancy outcomes.

Serum Ferritin Level and Total Iron Binding Capacity Relationship with Iron Deficiency Anemia During Pregnancy and Labour

Background: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a prevalent condition globally, impacting maternal and fetal health outcomes significantly. The condition is especially concerning during pregnancy, given its association with complications such as preterm labor and increased maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality rates. Objective: The study aimed to assess the prevalence of IDA among pregnant women and its correlation with fetal-maternal complications, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of current healthcare interventions in managing the condition. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Shikhzayad Women Hospital, Larkana, over six months from January 1, 2022, to July 1, 2022. Fifty pregnant women with IDA at various gestational stages were selected and evaluated for serum ferritin and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC). The severity of anemia and its correlation with feto-maternal complications were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Results: Out of the 50 women studied, 6 had mild anemia, 37 had moderate anemia, and 7 had severe anemia. Serum ferritin levels showed that 10 participants had levels between 5-10 mg/L, 20 had levels between 10-50 mg/L, 10 had levels between 50-150 mg/L, and 10 had normal levels (150-300 mg/L). Elevated TIBC levels (400-600 ug/ml) were observed in 30 women. Feto-maternal complications included emergency cesarean sections (28 cases), postpartum hemorrhage (8 cases), disseminated intravascular coagulation (6 cases), cardiac failure (4 cases), and maternal death (4 cases). Pregnancy outcomes were reported as 5 first-trimester abortions, 2 second-trimester abortions, 4 preterm deliveries, 15 cases of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), 9 intrauterine deaths (IUD), and 5 neonatal deaths (NND). Conclusion: IDA remains a significant determinant of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. This study underscores the urgent need for enhanced preventive strategies, including iron supplementation and dietary education. Further large-scale research is required for a comprehensive understanding of IDA's impact and the development of targeted interventions.

Assessing the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia and risk factors among children and women: A case study of rural Uttar Pradesh

BackgroundAnemia, defined as low blood haemoglobin (Hb) concentration, is a serious global health problem that relates to negative health outcomes. Anemia is a sign of poor nutrition and primarily affects children, women of childbearing age, and pregnant women. MethodsA mixed method approach was used to collect data using a multilevel sampling technique from Nagla Chandi Village, Uttar Pradesh. Survey was conducted on thirty mothers of children aged 6–59 months and thirty-three reproductive age women. Qualitative data was collected from school teachers and one ASHA worker. ResultsCommunity level anemia prevalence among women was similar to the NFHS statistics, while that of children was found to be lower in the studied community. In instances involving women, the prevalence of anemia was 64.7%, and the rates of mild and moderate anemia were 20.6% and 14.7%, respectively. Thirty-six percent of male and 44% female children were anemic. Seventy percent of male and 79% of female children were underweight. In case of adult females 18% were underweight and 26% were overweight. The risk factors of IDA and malnutrition are unhealthy eating habits, lack of intake of IFA supplements by women, lack of proper education in society, absence of Anganwadi (type of rural childcare centre in India), untreated water intake and poor hygiene practices are the major cause of IDA in this community. ConclusionsFood fortification, nutritional education, and good hygiene practices are prescribed interventions, to be implemented by Government bodies for the prevention of anemia.

Efficacy of Giving Iron Tablets on the Incidence of Anemia in Senior High School Students in Klaten, Indonesia

Introduction: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a common public health problem in adolescent girls. In Indonesia, the prevalence of IDA in adolescent girls reaches 37%. Iron tablets are an effective intervention to prevent and treat IDA.&#x0D; Methods: This research was a randomized controlled trial conducted on female senior high school students in Klaten, Indonesia. A total of 200 female students who met the criteria for anemia (hemoglobin levels &lt; 12 g/dL) were randomized to receive iron tablets or placebo for 12 weeks.&#x0D; Results: At the end of the study, hemoglobin levels in the iron tablet group were significantly higher than those in the placebo group (mean difference 1.2 g/dL, 95% CI 0.8-1.6 g/dL). The prevalence of anemia in the iron tablet group was also significantly lower compared to the placebo group (20% vs 40%, p = 0.02).&#x0D; Conclusion: Giving iron tablets is effective in increasing hemoglobin levels and reducing the incidence of anemia in female senior high school students in Klaten, Indonesia.

Prospective observational study iron deficiency anemia clinical profile in children with sickle cell disease: a study protocol

Background Sickle cell disease, a hereditary hemoglobinopathy, presents complex clinical challenges including increased susceptibility to iron deficiency anemia (IDA). However, the clinical profile of IDA in pediatric patients with sickle cell disease still needs to be adequately characterized. This study aims to comprehensively investigate the prevalence, severity, associated risk factors, and potential impact of IDA on morbidity and mortality in this vulnerable population. Methods A prospective observational study will be conducted on 303 children from January 2024 to December 2024 at the Department of Pediatrics, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and AVBR Hospital, Sawangi, Wardha. Participants will include pediatric patients diagnosed with sickle cell disease, with informed consent from their parents or legal guardians. Data will be collected through clinical assessments, blood sample analyses for hematological parameters, and systematic recording of relevant clinical information. Statistical analyses, including Fisher’s exact test, Chi-square test, and Student’s t-test, will be used to assess the data, with a significance level set at p &lt; 0.05. Expected outcomes This study aims to provide critical insights into the prevalence and clinical profile of IDA in children with sickle cell disease, shedding light on potential risk factors and correlations with comorbid conditions. Furthermore, it seeks to explore the relationship between IDA and disease-related morbidity and mortality.

The iron status of rural Nigerian women in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy: implications for the iron endowment and subsequent dietary iron needs of their babies.

The aim of the study was to determine the iron status of rural-dwelling pregnant Nigerian women in the second and third trimesters, and to predict their risk of giving birth to babies with suboptimal iron endowment. This was a prospective cohort study conducted between April and August 2021. A total of 174 consecutive and consenting pregnant rural dwellers, who met the inclusion criteria, were recruited by convenience sampling from the antenatal clinic of a public hospital in Nsukka, a semirural town in south-east Nigeria. The study participants were aged 21-40 years, and their iron status was determined by measuring blood haemoglobin (Hb) and serum ferritin (SF) concentration. Hb concentration was determined by the cyanmethemoglobin method and the SF concentration was determined by enzyme immunoassay method. Almost half (47.7%) of the participants had Hb concentrations below 11 g/dL, while about two out of every five (40.8%) had SF concentrations less than 15 &micro;g/L. The prevalence of iron deficiency, iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) and non-iron deficiency anaemia were 40.8%, 23.6% and 24.7%, respectively. The mean SF levels varied with maternal age, gestation stage, pregnancy intervals and the intake of iron supplements. The mean SF concentration was higher in the second trimester than in the third. The mean SF concentration &plusmn; standard deviation (37.10&plusmn;3.02 &micro;g/L) was higher in the group that took iron supplements than in the group that did not (20.76&plusmn;2.11 &micro;g/L). However, two out of five participants in both groups had SF concentrations less than 15.0 &micro;g/L. The prevalence of IDA was quite high among the participants in both trimesters even with the widespread intake of the recommended oral iron supplements. About four out of 10 of the participants had SF concentrations of less than 15 &micro;g/L and were thus judged at risk of giving birth to babies with poor iron deposits. Therefore, more effective strategies are needed to monitor and prevent IDA among pregnant women in rural populations of Nigeria and, by inference, other parts of tropical Africa.

Screening for iron deficiency among pregnant women

Iron deficiency (ID) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) are extremely common in females in Saudi Arabia and are highly prevalent in pregnancy. The Saudi MOH Mother Health Passport recommends that pregnant women undergo testing for complete blood count and ferritin in every trimester. The purpose of this study was to describe practices of screening pregnant women for ID or IDA during pregnancy and to identify the prevalence of anemia and IDA. The inclusion criteria were all patients who had at least 2 antenatal visits in the same center and 336 women were included. It was noted that 591 (51.5%) hemoglobin tests were performed during pregnancy, a 50% gap in comparison with MOH recommendations of measuring Hb in every trimester. The overall prevalence of anemia was 28.6%, 12.2% in the first trimester, 37.2% in the second trimester, and 36.3% in the third trimester. Ferritin was measured in less than 5% of patients, and most women had ferritin levels below 15 ng/ml. Screening practices for IDA and ID among pregnant women are suboptimal, and the prevalence of both entities is substantial. The development of detailed national guidelines for screening and managing ID and IDA in pregnancy is recommended.

Digital Educational Game "O Jardim do Ferro": A Tool for the Prevention of Iron Deficiency Anemia in Childhood.

Objective: To create and evaluate a digital educational game (DEG) for preschool children for the prevention of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia. Methodology: The DEG software was developed by a multidisciplinary team, according to Chandler's methodology, in Engine Unity. The game is a 2D platformer, for Android, with three different phases. A quiz was developed for parents/caregivers about iron absorption and anemia. The quiz content was evaluated by experts. The evaluation of the game was carried out through a questionnaire applied in the school for children from 4 to 6 years of age. Results: For the construction of the game, programming, team planning, art, and soundtrack were necessary. The game was registered at the National Institute of Industrial Property. The quiz was evaluated by 14 experts and all questions had more than 80% agreement. The questionnaire was answered by 32 children with a mean age of 5.0 ± 0.7 years, and ∼70% evaluated the game positively. Thus, the acceptability of the software was favored by most players. Conclusion: The "O Jardim do Ferro" software, from its conception to evaluation, proved to be a promising tool to contribute to food and nutrition education actions, providing opportunities for the construction of knowledge about iron-rich foods for the prevention of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia in childhood.

ASSESSMENT OF SEVERITY OF IRON DEFICIENCY AND ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN

Introduction: Iron deficiency (ID) is a common problem in pregnant women. The primary drivers of anemia in pregnancy are ID, aplastic anemia, a lack of vitamin B12, and vitamin B9. ID is the most widely recognized and can lead to unfavorable pregnancy outcomes. Both ID and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) are normal clinical illnesses in pregnant women. Anemia can cause a compromised immune system during pregnancy, leading to negative outcomes including premature birth and premature rupture of membranes. Objective: The objectives of this research are to determine the severity of ID among pregnant women and to check the associated risk factors for ID. Methodology: It is a cross-sectional study in government hospitals in Lahore. The data was collected through a self-administered questionnaire. Simple random sampling techniques are used, and SPSS is used for data analysis. Results: According to this study, the prevalence of IDA is high. Out of 385 women, 96 are normal, 102 are mild, 129 are moderate, and 58 are anemic. All associated risk factors—level of education, trimester, gravidity, family planning, and animal source food values—were significantly positive. Conclusion: The iron deficiency anemia (IDA) prevalence is high, and risk factors are high among pregnant women: living in rural areas, high gravidity, no family planning, and poor food from animal sources.

Iron Deficiency: A Reflection on Prevention

Iron deficiency is the main nutritional deficiency in the first years of life. In Brazil, studies show a prevalence of 10.1% to 40%, depending on the study. Worldwide, in low-income countries, the statistics are higher, as in India iron deficiency is 53%. The aim of this article is to highlight the importance of breastfeeding and adequate substitution when this is not possible in order to prevent iron deficiency anemia. Discussion: Adequate nutrition begins at preconception, pregnancy and continues throughout life, especially during the first 1000 days and 2200 days. Exclusive breastfeeding for up to 6 months and supplemented breastfeeding for up to 2 years or more is essential, as is the mother’s iron intake. In cases where breastfeeding is not possible, priority should be given to the use of dairy products that contain nutrients as close as possible to breast milk. In lower-income countries, cow’s milk is still widely used as a substitute for human milk. However, this can result in nutritional deficiencies and other health implications for infants. Inadequate infant feeding and the risk of nutritional deficiencies should be carefully assessed by health professionals. Thus, the choice of the best food allows for the full growth and development of the child as well as the prevention of iron deficiency.