Abstract

ASSIS, Ana Marlúcia O. et al. Childhood anemia prevalence and associated factors in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. Cad. Saúde Pública [online]. 2004, vol.20, n.6, pp. 1633-1641. ISSN 0102-311X.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0102-311X2004000600022.

A cross-sectional study was conducted in 1996 to estimate the prevalence of anemia in a stratified sample of 603 preschool children and identify factors associated with the disease. Hemoglobin assays were conducted in finger-prick blood samples using a Hemocue hemoglobinometer. Anemia was defined as hemoglobin below 11.0g/dl. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the potential associations. Observed anemia prevalence was 46.3%. Associated factors were: the 6-12-month and 12-24-month age brackets, the lowest tertiles for iron density and protein content dietary intake, and any degree of deficit in the height-for-age anthropometric parameter. Inadequate physical, sanitary, and environmental conditions in the home were associated with a significantly increased risk of anemia. Anemia constitutes an important health problem in this study's child population. Improvements in living conditions and dietary quality could contribute to a reduction in anemia prevalence.

Keywords : Anemia; Preschool Child; Logistic Models.