Anemia In Children: A Persistent Global Challenge
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52783/jns.v14.4174Keywords:
Anemia in children, iron deficiency, pediatric health, hemoglobinopathyAbstract
Anemia is a widespread hematological disorder defined by a reduction in the number of circulating red blood cells (RBCs) or a decrease in the hemoglobin concentration below established age- and sex-specific thresholds. This condition impairs the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood, which in turn affects tissue oxygenation and cellular metabolism. Among vulnerable populations, particularly children under five years of age, anemia represents a significant public health concern with far-reaching consequences. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 40% of children in this age group globally are anemic, underscoring the critical scale and urgency of the problem [1].
The etiology of anemia in children is complex and multifactorial. Nutritional deficiencies—most notably of iron, but also of folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin A—are among the leading causes. However, other contributors include inherited hemoglobin disorders (hemoglobinopathies), chronic infections (such as malaria and tuberculosis), inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, and certain genetic or congenital conditions that impair hematopoiesis. Socioeconomic factors such as poverty, food insecurity, poor access to healthcare, and inadequate maternal education further compound the risk, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
The consequences of anemia in children extend beyond hematological parameters. It adversely affects cognitive and motor development, academic performance, immune function, and overall physical growth. Severe or prolonged anemia during critical stages of development may lead to irreversible deficits, placing affected children at a disadvantage throughout life. Moreover, the burden of anemia contributes to increased healthcare utilization, reduced productivity, and higher morbidity and mortality rates, making it not only a medical concern but also a socioeconomic one.
Given its broad implications, a comprehensive understanding of the epidemiology, etiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and management strategies of anemia in children is essential for effective intervention. This review explores these multidimensional aspects of childhood anemia, aiming to inform clinicians, researchers, and public health practitioners about the key factors driving the condition and the necessary steps for its prevention and treatment. Ultimately, addressing the burden of anemia requires a concerted global effort focused on improving nutrition, strengthening health systems, promoting maternal and child health, and reducing inequalities in healthcare access and education.
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