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Introduction: Anemia is a major health problem worldwide more importantly in India, mostly in rural areas. It is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in pediatric age group. The term ‘Nutritional anaemia” encompasses all pathological conditions in which the blood haemoglobin concentration drops to an abnormally low level, due to deficiency in one or several nutrients. Iron deficiency is the most common cause of nutritional anaemia worldwide. Folic acid deficiency and vitamin B12 deficiency are less widespread. It is important to know the clinical manifestations andhaematological changes in children with nutritional anaemia to define the correct management approach. Aims and objectives: 1)To study the causes of nutritional anaemia in children 2) Clinical & haematological evaluation of nutritional anaemia in correlation with biochemical studies in children. Materials and Methods: A 2 years prospective study was done on 100 children with anemia in the department of pathology, Chalmeda Anand Rao Institute of Medical Sciences for a period of 2years from January 2022 to December 2023. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron deficiency is one of the most prevalent nutritional disorders in the world today. It accounts for approximately 50% of anemic cases which results in impaired reproductive performance, work capacity and cognitive development. The prevalence of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is increasing particularly in women of reproductive age. Anemia is classified based on different criteria such as nutritional status, genetic factor and morphology of red blood cells (RBC). The most common cause of anemia in the world is iron deficiency which leads to decreased production of RBC, increased destruction of RBC, increased iron requirements, inadequate iron absorption, blood loss which may be due to strenuous exercise, malaria, hookworm infestation and other chronic diseases. The diagnosis of anemia needs sufficient clinical attention, to ascertain the etiology, type, and severity which forms the basis for treatment of anemia reflected by low hemoglobin and storage forms of iron. Dietary iron absorption occurs mostly in the duodenum and upper jejunum of the small intestine. Iron in the ferrous state is easily absorbed than in ferric iron state. To address IDA, public health measures at both national and international levels have been developed which concentrates on implementation of anemia prevention programs and policy measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Globally, around 600 million preschool and school aged children are affected by anemia. According to World Health Organization, 65.5% of preschool children in southeast asia are anemic. Nutritional anemia is the commonest cause of anemia resulting from deficiencies of nutrients essential for red blood cell formation. Iron deficiency anemia is the most common nutritional deficiency amounting to 50%, followed by vitamin B12 and folate deficiency. This study is conducted to study the incidence of nutritional anemia among hospitalised children in a territory care teaching hospital in rural Telangana, in the age group of 6 months to 18 years and to bring awareness regarding the diet requirements in children in order to prevent deficiencies thereby the consequences of nutritional deficiencies. Method: This was a prospective hospital-based study conducted to study the incidence of Nutritional anemia along with clinical and hematological profile of nutritional anemia amongst children admitted to the Department of pediatrics in the age group of 6 months to 18 years at Mediciti Institute of Medical Sciences, Ghanpur, Telangana, from January 1st 2020 to June 30th 2021. All the children who had satisfied the inclusion criteria after taking consent from their parents were included in the study. Result: The incidence of nutritional anemia in the present study was found to be 52.08%, with both males and females equally affected. The age group of 6–12 years was particularly impacted, accounting for 49.3% of the cases. A significant 94% of the cases were associated with inadequate protein intake as per ICMR guidelines. Children from socio-economic classes 2 and 3, as per the Kuppuswamy scale, were more frequently affected. Severe anemia was observed in 8.7% of the cases. Peripheral smear analysis revealed microcytic, hypochromic red blood cells in 64.4% of the cases, with 94% of the children showing decreased serum iron levels. Conclusion: Nutritional anemia is the major cause of anemia in hospitalised children affecting majorly children in the age group of 6-12 years. Inadequate protein intake is the major contributor accounting to 94%, which can be prevented with proper dietary measures

BackgroundNutritional anemia is highly prevalent and has triggered a globally recognized public health concern worldwide.ObjectiveTo better understand the prevalence of anemia and the state of nutritional health in developed countries to inform global nutritional health and better manage the disease.MethodWe employed the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP)-2020 National Inpatient Health Care Data (NIS), administered by The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Nutritional anemia was diagnosed according to the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10). Matching analysis and multivariate regression were used to adjust for patient and hospital characteristics. Controls were obtained by stratifying and matching for age and sex.ResultsThe 2020 HCUP-NIS database encompassed a survey over 6.4 million hospitalized patients, among which 1,745,350 patients diagnosed with anemia, representing approximately 26.97% of the hospitalized population, over 310,000 were diagnosed with nutritional anemia, and 13,150 patients were hospitalized for nutritional anemia as primary diagnosis. Hospitalization rate for nutritional anemia exhibited an increased age-dependent increase nationwide, especially among females, who displayed 1.87 times higher than males. Notably, in comparison to the control group, individuals of the Black race exhibit a higher prevalence of nutritional anemia (case group: 21.7%, control group: 13.0%, p

Background: Anemia, characterized by a decrease in red blood cells or hemoglobin, results in insufficient tissue oxygenation. Nutritional anemia, a prevalent issue in countries like India, particularly affects adolescents and women of reproductive age. Adolescence, crucial for adult development, imposes heightened nutritional demands. Iron deficiency, a common cause of anemia in young females, is associated with compromised leucocyte bactericidal activity. This study explores the impact of anemia on leucocyte and platelet counts. Methodology: The study involved 40 females (18-24 years) with Hb>12gm% in the control group and anemic females (Hb<6gm%) from SLN Hospital. Informed consent was obtained, and subjects were selected based on history and examination. Hemoglobin, leucocyte count, differential count, platelet count, and the L ratio were measured using an electronic cell counter. Statistical analysis employed descriptive statistics and SPSS, with a significance level of p<0.05. Results: In anaemic females, the mean hemoglobin was 5.81±1.71, significantly lower than the control group (13.61±1.09). Total leucocyte count was higher in anaemia, with a significant rise in neutrophils and a decrease in monocytes and eosinophils. Platelet count significantly decreased, and the N/L ratio was higher in anaemia (p<0.01). Discussion: Nutritional anemia remains prevalent, impacting physical and mental well-being, especially in children and reproductive-age women. Iron's role in blood cell maturation is vital, and its deficiency compromises immune cell activity. The study aligns with prior research on increased neutrophils in anemia. Lower oxidative stress prolongs neutrophil lifespan, compensating for reduced phagocytic activity. Conclusion: Iron deficiency anemia is associated with reversible arachidonic acid-induced platelet dysfunction, emphasizing the importance of iron replenishment. The study concludes that anemia induces hypoxia, contributing to inflammation, ischemic damage, increased myocardial workload, thrombocytopenia, altered leucocyte counts, and an elevated N/L ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of sublingual methylcobalamin for the treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia in children. Methods: A single arm intervention study was conducted between November, 2020 and April, 2022 in children aged 1–12 years with vitamin B12 deficiency anemia. Children aged 1–6 years received a tablet of methylcobalamin (1500 mcg) by sublingual route every alternate day (three doses) while those aged 7–12 years received five such doses. Thereafter, one such sublingual tablet was given weekly and all participants were followed-up for 6 weeks. Results: 37 children with a mean (SD) age of 8.2 (4.1) years were treated and followed-up. On day 10, no child needed rescue therapy with parenteral methylcobalamin. After 6 weeks, the mean (SD) serum cobalamin increased from 123.3 (35.5) pg/mL to 507.3 (274.2) pg/mL (P<0.001), plasma homocysteine decreased from 48.9 (17.8) µmol/L to 16.3 (8.5) µmol/L (P<0.001), the mean (SD) hemoglobin increased by 2.3 (1.1) g/dL (P<0.001), and MCV decreased by 12.9 (6.8) fL (P<0.001). 67.6% children persisted to have anemia, albeit majority of them had mild or moderate anemia. There were no unsolicited side-effects reported. Conclusion: Sublingual methylcobalamin is effective for the treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia in children; although, the duration of treatment needs to be longer than six weeks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nutritional anemia, one of the common causes of anemia, may result from the deficiency of a number of micronutrients. The present study was conducted to assess the prevalence of nutritional anemia and the clinico-haematological profile of anemia among the hospitalized children aged 1 to 5 years. Materials and Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among 250 anemic children between age one and five years attending the tertiary care hospital at Northern India. An interviewer administered questionnaire was used to obtain the data. Peripheral blood samples were used to assess the hematological parameters. Results: The prevalence of nutritional anemia among the anemic 1-5 years old children was 27.6%, in which Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) prevalence was 21.2%. Vitamin B12 deficiency was found among 8% of the anemic children and folic acid deficiency was prevalent among the 1.6% of the cases. The mean hemoglobin levels were significantly lower in among the nutritional anemia children (8.75 g/dl). Conclusion: Overall, the proportion of nutritional anemia among children aged one to five years is significant in Northern India, with IDA being the most common nutritional deficiency anemia.

Background: Nutritional anemia (NA) is the commonest cause of anemia in children. Iron deficiency is the most important contributing factor to nutritional anemia. Severe iron deficiency is associated with impaired brain development along with cognitive, behavioural, and psychomotor manifestations, particularly during the first two years. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and etiological profile of anemia in children aged 6 months to 5 years. Material and methods: Hospital-based observational study conducted on children between 6 months to 5 years of age, admitted to Government General Hospital, Srikakulam and having anemia according to WHO classification. Results: Of the 157 children diagnosed with anemia over 18 months period, iron deficiency anemia is the commonest cause of anemia, seen in 107 children followed by sickle cell anemia seen in 21 children. Out of the sampled children, 154 children recovered, and 3 children succumbed to death. Conclusion: Nutritional anemia, particularly iron deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia in 6 months to 5 years-old children. Co-morbidities like malnutrition, parasitic infestations, diarrheal diseases, and recurrent respiratory tract infections form a vicious cycle and result in nutritional anemia. Identifying the factors that are leading to iron deficiency anemia and implementing the control measures like early iron supplementation results in reducing morbidity and mortality.

Abstract Background Anemia occurs at all stages of life and it is of public health concern as it serves as an indicator of quality nutrition and health of a society. Almost one third of the global prevalence of anemia occur among reproductive aged women and almost 40% of these women reside in sub-Saharan Africa including Mali. This study, therefore, sought to assess the determinants of anemia among women of childbearing age in Mali. Methods Secondary data analysis of the 2018 Mali Demographic and health Survey (MDHS). Anemia in women was the outcome variable for the study. Data of 5,048 women aged 15–49 was used for the study. Using binary and multivariate logistic regression models, factors associated with anemia among women were identified. The analysis was conducted using Stata version 14.2 software and adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) with a 95% Confidence Interval (CI) and p-value

Anemia is a major public health concern. Young children, menstruating adolescent girls and women, and pregnant women are among the most vulnerable. Anemia is the consequence of a wide range of causes, including biological, socioeconomic, and ecological risk factors. Primary causes include: iron deficiency; inherited red blood cell disorders; infections, such as soil‐transmitted helminthiasis, schistosomiasis, and malaria; gynecological and obstetric conditions; and other chronic diseases that lead to blood loss, decreased erythropoiesis, or destruction of erythrocytes. The most vulnerable population groups in low‐ and middle‐income countries are often at the greatest risk to suffer from several of these causes simultaneously as low socioeconomic status is linked with an increased risk of anemia through multiple pathways. Targeted and effective action is needed to prevent anemia. Understanding the causes and risk factors of anemia for different population subgroups within a country guides the design and implementation of effective strategies to prevent and treat anemia. A coordinated approach across various expert groups and programs could make the best use of existing data or could help to determine when newer and more relevant data may need to be collected, especially in countries with a high anemia burden and limited information on the etiology of anemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pancytopenia in children with celiac disease (CeD) is postulated to be due to nutritional deficiency such as vitamin B12, folate and copper or an autoimmune process resulting in aplastic anemia with hypoplastic marrow. In the present case series, we report the profile and explore the etiology of pancytopenia among children with CeD. There are only a few case reports of pancytopenia in children with CeD. We enrolled newly diagnosed cases of CeD and pancytopenia presenting in the celiac disease clinic over three years. Detailed evaluation was carried out for the cause of pancytopenia. We followed up on the cases for compliance and response to gluten-free diet at three months, six months and 12 months. Twenty patients were eligible for inclusion. They were divided into two groups: one with aplastic anemia with hypoplastic marrow labeled as Gp CeD-AA and the other with megaloblastic/nutritional anemia labeled as Gp CeD-MA. Patients in Gp CeD-MA presented with classical symptoms of CeD as recurrent diarrhea, abdomen distension, pallor and poor weight gain. They had none or just one transfusion requirement and had an early and complete recovery from pancytopenia. Patients in Gp CeD-AA presented with atypical symptoms such as epistaxis, short stature, fever, pallor and weakness. They had a multiple blood transfusion requirement and had delayed and partial recovery from pancytopenia. Pancytopenia is not a disease in itself but is the presentation of an underlying disease. It can occur due to various coexisting disorders in children with CeD, which can be as simple as nutritional deficiencies to as complex as an autoimmune process or malignancy. CeD should be included in the differential diagnosis of aplastic anemia as CeD and aplastic anemia both have a similar pathological process involving T cell destruction of tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Context: Cobalamin and folate are essential for the synthesis of nucleic acids and in the maintenance of myelin. They are required during the period of the rapid growth of infancy and childhood. Their deficiency may result in nutritional anemia and neurological manifestations. There is paucity of literature regarding the prevalence of cobalamin and folate deficiency among North Indian children aged 6–59 months. Aim: The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of serum cobalamin and folate deficiency among children aged 6–59 months, attending a secondary care hospital. Settings and Design: Children were recruited from pediatrics OPD of the sub-district hospital (SDH), Ballabgarh, Haryana, through systematic random sampling. Hemoglobin was measured by an automated analyzer. Serum cobalamin and serum folate were estimated using enhanced chemiluminescence based immunoassay. Results: A total of 420 children were recruited, of which 392 provided a blood specimen. Prevalence of cobalamin, folate deficiency, and anemia were 22.3% (95% CI: 18.3–26.7), 10.9% (95% CI: 8.2–14.6), and 81.9% (95% CI 77.7–85.4), respectively. The proportion of children with cobalamin deficiency who had anemia was 97.7% compared to 95.7% among those with no cobalamin deficiency (P = 0.396). Similarly, the proportion of children with folate deficiency who had anemia was 95.2% compared to 96.2% among those with no folate deficiency (P = 0.765). Conclusion: We found that almost one in five children aged 6–59 were deficient in cobalamin, and one in ten were deficient in folate.

Introduction: Anemia is one of the major public health problem more commonly encountered in both developed as well as developing countries1 . Various causes for anaemia are nutritional deficiencies, infectious diseases and chronic blood loss. Nutritional anemia is the most widespread nutritional disorder in the world affecting 500 million to 1 billion individuals4 . The most vulnerable population for nutritional anaemia is Adolescents aged 10-19 years. Most of the anemia initiatives are directed towards maternity and early childhood, there is not much attention shown towards adolescent population. This study was conducted to throw light on attitude towards nutritional anemia among undergraduate medical students by using Health belief model. Study Methodology: This study was conducted in a private medical college at Chengelpet district of Tamil Nadu. 122 students from first year were selected by using universal sampling method. A self administered questionnaire comprising of two parts was used to collect data, first part was general information about the participants and second part were questions under five factors of Health benefit model. Result:Mean value of perceived benefit was 3.2+1.54, perceived barrier was 1.7+0.47, perceived self efficacy was 2.69+1.14 interpersonal influence was 2.45+0.73 and situational influence was 2.26+1.2. Nearly 82.8% had perceived benefit on highest scale, 76.2% had perceived barrier on a moderate scale and 52.5% had perceived self efficacy on a moderate scale. Conclusion: The study participants with high self efficacy were able to overcome the barriers and perceive benefit of reduced risk in acquiring nutritional anaemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Unusual clinical course Background: Iron deficiency anemia is the most widespread, preventable, and treatable cause of anemia in children. Potential causes of iron deficiency anemia are prolonged breastfeeding with poor quality of introduced solid food and the use of whole cow milk instead of iron-rich formula. We describe 2 unusual cases of nutritional iron deficiency anemia with profound low level of hemoglobin around 1 g/dl, with similar diagnosis and different hospital course. Case Reports: First case: A 20-month-old Saudi boy presented with symptoms of acute gastroenteritis. He was noted to be very pale, with extremely low hemoglobin value of 1.1 g/dl. His nutritional status mostly consists of breastfeeding, with poor iron-rich food. He was admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit with a complicated hospital course of reversible cardiomyopathy and gut involvement. Second case: A 26-month-old Saudi girl presented with complaints of severe pallor and fatigability for 2 months, with critical result of extreme low level of hemoglobin 1.2 g/dl. A detailed nutritional history revealed being exclusively on pasteurized cow's milk with no solid food intake for 6 months. Conclusions: Neglected cases of nutritional iron deficiency anemia may lead to profoundly low levels of hemoglobin. Possible manifestations include heart failure and gastrointestinal involvement in the form of leaky gut syndrome or exudative enteropathy. IV iron therapy was a very effective treatment in both patients. To our knowledge, probably no reported cases of severe iron deficiency anemia reaching this extremely low level of hemoglobin with multiple associated complications exist in the pediatric literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of cognitive and motor skills early in life is essential for a child's global development and learning, which in turn influences later health and well-being. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the associations between sociodemographic factors and nutritional factors with cognitive and motor delays in infants aged 6–12 months. This study involved 200 mother-infant pairs from three randomly selected maternal and child health clinics. Results showed high prevalence of cognitive delay (37.0%) and motor delay (58.0%). Infants with small gestational age, anaemia, and single mothers had an increased likelihood of cognitive delay. Boys, anaemic infants, and non-exclusively breastfed infants were more likely to develop motor delay. Nutritional education programmes and interventions for mothers should emphasize early nutrition such as exclusive breastfeeding practices and the prevention of anaemia in infants in order to improve cognitive and motor development among infants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutritional inadequacy has been a major health problem worldwide. One of the many health problems that result from it is anemia. Anemia is considered a health concern among all ages, particularly children, as it has been associated with cognitive and developmental delays. Researchers have investigated the association between nutritional deficiencies and anemia through various methods. As novel analytical methods are needed to ascertain the association and reveal indirect ones, we aimed to classify nutritional anemia using the cluster analysis approach. In this study, we included 4,762 students aged between 10 and 17 years attending public and UNRWA schools in the West Bank. Students' 24-h food recall and blood sample data were collected for nutrient intake and hemoglobin analysis. The K-means cluster analysis was used to cluster the hemoglobin levels into two groups. Vitamin B12, folate, and iron intakes were used as the indicators of nutrient intake associated with anemia and were classified as per the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) values. We applied the Classification and Regression Tree (CRT) model for studying the association between hemoglobin clusters and vitamin B12, folate, and iron intakes, sociodemographic variables, and health-related risk factors, accounting for grade and age. Results indicated that 46.4% of the students were classified into the low hemoglobin cluster, and 60.7, 72.5, and 30.3% of vitamin B12, folate, and iron intakes, respectively, were below RDA. The CRT analysis indicated that vitamin B12, iron, and folate intakes are important factors related to anemia in girls associated with age, locality, food consumption patterns, and physical activity levels, while iron and folate intakes were significant factors related to anemia in boys associated with the place of residence and the educational level of their mothers. The deployment of clustering and classification techniques for identifying the association between anemia and nutritional factors might facilitate the development of nutritional anemia prevention and intervention programs that will improve the health and wellbeing of schoolchildren.

Background: Pancytopenia is characterized by decreased hemoglobin (adult males

Objective: Anemia is a common problem in outpatient clinics, and endoscopic interventions are one of the initial steps to rule out the gastrointestinal causes. In this study, we aimed to analyze the diagnostic yield of endoscopic interventions in children with severe anemia. Materials and Methods: The demographic features, laboratory findings, and endoscopic and histopathological findings of 65 children with severe anemia (hemoglobin <7 g/dL) (mean age of 12.1 ± 4.4 years, 73.8% female) who underwent endoscopic interventions were recorded from the files. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the presence of positive endoscopic findings and/or histopathological examination. Factors that may predict the presence of positive endoscopic findings and/or histopathological examination were analyzed. Results: After a colonoscopy and/or upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, the etiology of anemia was identified in 35 patients, and the major diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori gastritis in 16.9% and gastrointestinal ulcer in 10.8% of the patients was made. No gastrointestinal pathology was detected in 30 patients. The diagnostic yield of endoscopic examination in patients with severe anemia was 53.8% (95% CI: 63.3-67.7). Presence of hypoalbuminemia (P = .021), high erythrocyte sedimentation rate (P = .006), and high C-reactive protein (P = .03) was significantly associated with positive findings in endoscopic interventions. Conclusion: We recommend performing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and/or colonoscopy in patients with severe anemia associated with gastrointestinal symptoms and using laboratory findings of hypoalbuminemia, high erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and C-reactive protein in order to rule out gastrointestinal pathologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Cobalamin and folate are essential for the synthesis of nucleic acids and in the maintenance of myelin. They are required during the period of the rapid growth of infancy and childhood. Their deficiency may result in nutritional anemia and neurological manifestations. There is paucity of literature regarding the prevalence of cobalamin and folate deficiency among North Indian children aged 6–59 months. Aim: The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of serum cobalamin and folate deficiency among children aged 6–59 months, attending a secondary care hospital. Settings and Design: Children were recruited from pediatrics OPD of the sub-district hospital (SDH), Ballabgarh, Haryana, through systematic random sampling. Hemoglobin was measured by an automated analyzer. Serum cobalamin and serum folate were estimated using enhanced chemiluminescence based immunoassay. Results: A total of 420 children were recruited, of which 392 provided a blood specimen. Prevalence of cobalamin, folate deficiency, and anemia were 22.3% (95% CI: 18.3–26.7), 10.9% (95% CI: 8.2–14.6), and 81.9% (95% CI 77.7–85.4), respectively. The proportion of children with cobalamin deficiency who had anemia was 97.7% compared to 95.7% among those with no cobalamin deficiency (P = 0.396). Similarly, the proportion of children with folate deficiency who had anemia was 95.2% compared to 96.2% among those with no folate deficiency (P = 0.765). Conclusion: We found that almost one in five children aged 6–59 were deficient in cobalamin, and one in ten were deficient in folate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction In developing countries such as India, severe acute malnutrition (SAM) has been a cause for great concern in the pediatric population. SAM is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in children less than 60 months of age and leaves them vulnerable to diseases due to a decrease in immunological response. Children with SAM are prone to infections, and due to nutritional deficiency, many have anemia which may be a direct or indirect cause of morbidity and mortality. They are affected by frequent respiratory and gastrointestinal infections. Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted for a period of two months, from December 1, 2023, to January 31, 2024, in children with SAM aged less than 60 months. A detailed history and demographic profile were taken and recorded in a predesigned proforma. Anthropometric measurements of the study subjects were recorded, and lab investigations included complete blood picture, serum iron, serum ferritin, serum folate, and serum vitamin B12 levels. The prevalence and severity of anemia were determined by assessing the hemoglobin levels. The data collected was analyzed in Excel sheets (Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, Washington, United States) and the results were depicted in the form of graphs. Results A total of 300 children were included in the study of which 22 children were aged less than six months and 278 children were in the age group of 6-60 months. The overall gender distribution was 124 (41.4%) males and 176 (58.6%) females. In the age group of <6 months, of the 22 children, six (27.27%) were females while 16 (72.72%) were male. In the age group of 6-60 months, of the 278 children, 170 (61%) were females while 108 (39%) were males. Of the total 300 children, 232 (77.3%) were found to be anemic, of which 54 (23.2%) had mild anemia, 162 (69.8%) had moderate anemia, and 16 (6.89%) had severe anemia. Low serum iron levels were detected in 134 (44.6%) with iron deficiency being more common in females; below-normal ferritin levels were seen in 153 (51%) cases. Folate levels were found to be deficient in 97 (32.3%) children while vitamin B12 levels were deficient in 186 (62%). Conclusion Anemia is a common occurrence in children with SAM. Prevention of anemia starts from the womb by improvement of maternal nutrition and iron, and folic acid supplementation during pregnancy. Exclusive breastfeeding up to six months of age and further continuation of breastfeeding coupled with initiation of home-available complementary feeding from the age of six months onwards go a long way in maintaining healthy nutrition status in children in the vulnerable age group of less than 60 months. Healthcare professionals should utilize the well-baby and well-child visits to educate the parents and primary caretakers regarding the feeding practices to prevent, detect, and treat anemia, which will help reduce the morbidity and mortality in children with SAM., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Institutional Ethics Committee, Biomedical and Health Research Committee, Osmania Medical College issued approval IEC-BHR/OMC/M.NO (04)/P-45 dated November 20, 2023. Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Venigalla et al.)

Background: Iron deficiency anemia remains a common condition in India and Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is commonly being used in diabetic individuals both as a parameter of glycemic control over previous three months and as a diagnostic tool. HbA1c levels have been reported to be altered by the presence of nutritional anemia's, hemolytic anemia and variant hemoglobin's (Hb) among others. Interestingly, iron deficiency anemia effect on HbA1c levels were not found in many studies. Hence a study is conducted to observe the effects if any in routine clinical practice scenario of mild to moderate anemia on HbA1c. sixty diabetic patients Methods: HbA1c was analyzed with their Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS), Post Lunch Blood Sugar (PLBS), along with Hemoglobin levels. Diabetic patients coming for routine follow-up were studied after their consent, with ethical committee clearance. All the parameters were found to have a normal distribution, i.e., they had an acceptable level of skewness -- 0.5 to -0.5, were then analyzed further with statistical tools viz., Pearson's correlate and linear regression. Results: The mean HbA1c was found to be 8.9. Further, the mean Hemoglobin (Hb), FBS and PLBS were: 12.29, 157.9 and 229 respectively. The Pearson's correlate and linear regression analysis was done. HbA1c correlated well with FBS and PLBS, one tailed significance p value being <0.01 for both FBS and PLBS; but was not found to correlate with Hb: p value 0.146 (not significant). Conclusions: In the present study representing field scenario, the HbA1c was not correlated with mild anemia but was significantly correlated with FBS and PLBS. Hence in a routine clinical practice scenario the presence of mild anemia didn't appear to interfere with the HbA1c levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anemia in patients with cancer has been associated with poor outcomes. There are scarce data on the prevalence of iron and Vitamin B12 deficiencies and inflammatory anemia among treatment-naive patients in the Indian setting. Objectives: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence of anemia and iron and Vitamin B12 deficiencies along with inflammation in treatment-naive patients. Materials and Methods: This single-center cross-sectional study was conducted at the Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (Patna, India) from July 2019 to December 2019. All patients registered in the Medical Oncology Department were offered testing for iron profile and serum Vitamin B12 and serum ferritin levels. Anemia was defined as hemoglobin level300 mg/L, and Vitamin B12 level

Introduction: The prevalence of iron deficiency, latent and symptomatic, is heterogeneous worldwide. In this study, we aim to explore the prevalence of iron deficiency, with and without anemia, among medical college females at the high Altitude Aseer region of Southwestern Saudi Arabia. Methodology: 200 female medical students were randomly sampled, between the ages of 19 and 27 years. Blood samples were collected for complete blood count (CBC) values and serum ferritin determination. Questionnaires were completed in order to collect demographics, medical history, and socioeconomic information of the participants. Results: Prevalence of overall iron deficiency was high (63%, serum ferritin

Background: Nutritional anemia due to iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia in India. The average diet in India is low in iron and mostly of vegetable origin. This can be improved by increasing awareness of foodstuffs that are rich in iron and ensuring their availability. Objective: The objective of the study was to assess the quality of information available on iron-rich foods and to assess their production and consumption in India. Methods: This was a review of common textbooks for medical, nursing, and home science students; related policy and program documents; and government publications on production and consumption of various foodstuffs in India. Results: Details of specific foods that are rich in iron have not been provided. Instead, food groups such as pulses, cereals, nuts, and green leafy vegetables (GLVs) have been mentioned that are good sources of non-heme iron. This is in spite of the fact that all the foodstuffs in these groups are not uniformly iron rich. Among cereals and pulses, rice and red gram dal (arhar) are the most commonly produced and consumed, though they have the lowest iron content. Spinach and mustard leaves believed to be iron rich and commonly consumed are among those GLVs having lowest iron content. Conclusion: Details of 5–10 foodstuffs which have the highest iron content within each food group should be available in relevant books and documents meant for education, production, and consumption data.

Background: Pancytopenia is characterized by decreased hemoglobin (adult males <13 g/dl, pregnant females <10 g/dl, nonpregnant females and children <11 g/dl), total leukocyte count (<4 × 109/L), and platelet count (<100 × 109/L). Depending on the severity, patients can present with varied symptoms. Vast majority of conditions causing pancytopenia are known. Hence, a systematic approach is a mandatory requirement to identify the cause of pancytopenia for appropriate management. Aim: Clinicopathological study of new onset pancytopenia and to determine the frequency of different etiologies causing pancytopenia. Materials and Methods: A prospective study of 451 consecutive cases who had pancytopenia and presented in outpatient or emergency room of a tertiary care center of Western India, from July 2017 to September 2019. The clinical data of the patients were obtained and hematological investigations were analyzed in the hematopathology section of the pathology department. Bone marrow (BM) aspirates and biopsies were performed in 355 cases. Data were analyzed using SPSS software. Results: Patients age ranged from 6 months to 84 years with mean standard deviation of 45.89 ± 19.21 years. Overall male to female ratio was 1.87:1. Hematolymphoid malignancy was the most common cause (n = 137, 30.37%) followed by nutritional anemia (n = 97, 21.5%), infections (n = 68, 15.07%), BM failure (n = 66, 14.63%), hypersplenism (n = 55, 12.19%), and autoimmune disorder (n = 11, 2.44%). Conclusion: Pancytopenia is a common hematological entity with the multifactorial etiologies. It can present as a life-threatening condition or can be merely transient. Hematolymphoid malignancy was found to be the most common underlying cause in our study. An accurate etiological break will further assist in appropriate management of these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of nutritional anemia is one of elementary school-aged children's nutritional problems and brings an impact on students' learning achievements. This study aimed to analyze the role of sharing peer group intervention on nutritional anemia prevention to elementary school-aged children. The research design used was quasi-experiment with control group design. Population and samples of students from IV and V classes were 54 and the students were chosen through purposive sampling method. Data were analyzed with paired test. Results showed that there were increment scores in cognitive aspect after sharing peer group method was applied as research intervention (M=24.07; SD=11.851). The value was greater than cognitive scores increment after counseling method applied as research intervention (M=14.81; SD=8.931) with p value=0.002 less than significance value (p<0,05). It shows that there is increase of average increment to respondent's cognitive scores. Average increment affective scores of respondents after sharing peer group (M=25.55; SD=15.275) was conducted is greater than counseling method (M=15.92; SD=14.212) with p value=0.020 less than significance value (p<0.05). It means that there is increase of average increment to respondent's affective scores. Average increment psychomotor scores of respondents after sharing peer group (M=22.22; SD=11.208) was conducted is greater than counseling method (M=15.18; SD=11.559) with p value=0.027 less than significance value (p<0.05). It means that there is increase of average increment to respondent's psychomotor scores. It is expected to shool practitioners to continue the counseling and sharing peer group to students in order to maintain healthy food consumption pattern with sustainable and proper way so that students can avoid nutritional anemia cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nutritional anemia is highly prevalent and has triggered a globally recognized public health concern worldwide., Objective: To better understand the prevalence of anemia and the state of nutritional health in developed countries to inform global nutritional health and better manage the disease., Method: We employed the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP)-2020 National Inpatient Health Care Data (NIS), administered by The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Nutritional anemia was diagnosed according to the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10). Matching analysis and multivariate regression were used to adjust for patient and hospital characteristics. Controls were obtained by stratifying and matching for age and sex., Results: The 2020 HCUP-NIS database encompassed a survey over 6.4 million hospitalized patients, among which 1,745,350 patients diagnosed with anemia, representing approximately 26.97% of the hospitalized population, over 310,000 were diagnosed with nutritional anemia, and 13,150 patients were hospitalized for nutritional anemia as primary diagnosis. Hospitalization rate for nutritional anemia exhibited an increased age-dependent increase nationwide, especially among females, who displayed 1.87 times higher than males. Notably, in comparison to the control group, individuals of the Black race exhibit a higher prevalence of nutritional anemia (case group: 21.7%, control group: 13.0%, p < 0.001). In addition, hospitalization rates were higher among low-income populations, with lower rates of private insurance (case group: 18.7%, control group: 23.5%, p < 0.001) and higher rates of Medicaid insurance (case group: 15.4%, control group: 13.9%, p < 0.001). In areas characterized by larger urban centers and advanced economic conditions within the urban-rural distribution, there was an observed increase in the frequency of patient hospitalizations. Iron deficiency anemia emerged as the predominant subtype of nutritional anemia, accounting for 12,214 (92.88%). Secondary diagnosis among patients hospitalized for nutritional anemia revealed that a significant number faced concurrent major conditions like hypertension and renal failure., Conclusion: In economically prosperous areas, greater attention should be given to the health of low-income individuals and the older adult. Our findings hold valuable insights for shaping targeted public health policies to effectively address the prevalence and consequences of nutritional anemia based on a overall population health., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Tian, Fan, Wei, Li, Yang, Na and Zhang.)

Background and Objective: Nutritional anemia is the most common and easily preventable cause of anemia. No comprehensive data regarding the magnitude of this problem are available in the literature in northern regions of West Bengal where a significant number of tribals inhabit. The present study was undertaken to assess the magnitude of anemia and the status of iron, Vitamin B12, and folic acid deficiency in tribals of North Bengal and to analyze their red blood cell (RBC) morphology. Materials and Methods: A descriptive study done on the individuals during a period of 1 year at North Bengal Medical College. Serum iron, ferritin, total iron-binding capacity, Vitamin B12, and folic acid were measured along with other relevant investigations. Results: Forty-eight out of 88 (54.51%) of the cases were found to be anemic. Thirty-four out of 48 (70.83%) of them had at least one of the nutritional deficiencies. Iron deficiency was most common, seen in 18 (37.5%) of cases. Abnormal hemoglobin was seen in 7 (14.58%), two of which also had nutritional deficiency. In combined iron and folate deficiency, 7 out of 10 (70%) showed microcytic hypochromic morphology and 3 (30%) were dimorphic. Conclusion: Iron and folic acid deficiency is quite common among the tribals of northern region of West Bengal. RBC morphology alone lacks the specificity for the diagnosis of causes. Furthermore, nutritional deficiencies may coexist with abnormal hemoglobin variants, complicating their diagnosis further. A proper clinical, hematological, and biochemical correlation is required for the accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of anemia, highlighting the need for a screening for the causes of anemia in this population.

Introduction: Anemia is a global public health problem affecting both developing and developed countries. According to the World Health Organization, the highest number of individuals affected by anemia is observed in nonpregnant women aged 15–49.99 years. Though nutritional anemia can affect any age group, female medical students form a vulnerable population due to their hectic schedules, erratic mealtimes, and long working hours while staying in hostel for majority of times. Therefore, this study is aimed at determining the prevalence and awareness of anemia among the apparently healthy female students studying at a health institute. Methods: A cross-sectional study is conducted among 300 female students studying at a health institute in western Maharashtra after their written informed consent. A structured questionnaire elicits their general information, the knowledge about signs and symptoms of anemia, and dietary habits. Basal metabolic index and hemoglobin using the spectroscopy method are estimated for each participant. Results: Anemia prevalence in our population is 86 (28.6%). Based upon the severity of anemia, about 54 (18%) has mild anemia and 32 (10.6%) has moderate anemia. No case of severe anemia is noted in our study sample. Conclusion: The findings of the study highlight that anemia can affect even medical female students who are a vulnerable group unexpectedly suffering from nutritional deficiencies. Thus, this study highlights the need for interventional programs at primary health-care systems and colleges for improvement in the nutritional status of anemic students to reduce its complications.

Background: Adolescence is the period of rapid growth with physical & physiological development and profound biological, emotional, social, and cognitive changes in human beings. Nutritional anemia is the common & worldwide public health problem among adolescent girls and overall prevalence of nutritional anemia varies from 40-90%. It may produce adverse effects like increased risk of morbidity and mortality and affects adolescent's future health. Objective: This study aimed to assess the awareness on nutritional anemia and its prevention among adolescent girls. Method: A non experimental descriptive design was adopted to assess awareness on nutritional anemia and its prevention among adolescent girls at Keezhakasakudi, Karaikal. A total of 60 adolescent girls between 10-15 years of age were selected by convenience sampling technique. Data was collected by using self structured interview schedule. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analysis the gathered data. Results: The study results reported that the majority 63% (38) of adolescent girls had inadequate awareness, 27% (16) had moderately adequate awareness and only 10% (6) had adequate awareness on nutritional anemia and its prevention. The overall mean was 9.6 with standard deviation±2.49. The results of the present study also revealed that there was statistically significant association between level of awareness on nutritional anemia with age of the adolescent girls. Conclusion: Nutritional anemia as the major non communicable disease and contributing negative impact on health, it necessitates the need to organize counseling programs to adolescent girls in schools and colleges with much emphasis on impact of nutritional anemia on future health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The prevalence of iron deficiency, latent and symptomatic, is heterogeneous worldwide. In this study, we aim to explore the prevalence of iron deficiency, with and without anemia, among medical college females at the high Altitude Aseer region of Southwestern Saudi Arabia. Methodology: 200 female medical students were randomly sampled, between the ages of 19 and 27 years. Blood samples were collected for complete blood count (CBC) values and serum ferritin determination. Questionnaires were completed in order to collect demographics, medical history, and socioeconomic information of the participants. Results: Prevalence of overall iron deficiency was high (63%, serum ferritin <20 μg/L, 52.5%, ferritin <15 μg/L). Anemia, adjusted for high altitude (defined as less than 13 g/dL was present in 41 participants (20.5%) and 12 (6.5%) have Hb <12 g/dL. Iron-deficiency anemia (Hb <13 g/dL and serum ferritin <15 μg/L) was present in 35 (17.5%). Personal and family history of anemia and poor animal product containing meals were positively correlated with the presence of iron deficiency state. Neither symptoms of anemia, nor the presence of menorrhagia correlate with the presence of iron deficiency anemia. Conclusion: Iron deficiency with and without anemia is a very common and condition in young females' population at high altitude. Implementing a lab method to screen for anemia on vulnerable populations is needed. Frequently asymptomatic, the primary care providers should maintain a high degree of suspicion in order to initiate screening for iron status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Prevalence of nutritional anemia among Saudi female and children is evident and has been reflected in different studies, most of researchers conclude that there is a gap in dietary counseling in addition to the poor awareness of community about appropriate dietary habits; this study is trying to assess counseling behavior and training competency of family physician at primary health centers with respect to nutritional anemia. Objective: Study objective is to assess general beliefs, practice, and level of training in counseling by family physician. Methodology: This is a cross-sectional study design; data collected using self-administered questionnaire provided to the doctor at clinic site. Results: The most commonly learned counseling technique in order as follows motivational interviewing (68%), cognitive behavioral therapy (58%), and 15-Minute Hour approach (53%). Conclusion: This study confirms the presence of positive counseling beliefs and practices by family physicians; however, the result is also reflects the current reluctant state of family physicians in devoting ample time for nutritional anemia counseling.

Introduction: Anemia is a global public health problem affecting both developing and developed countries. According to the World Health Organization, the highest number of individuals affected by anemia is observed in nonpregnant women aged 15–49.99 years. Though nutritional anemia can affect any age group, female medical students form a vulnerable population due to their hectic schedules, erratic mealtimes, and long working hours while staying in hostel for majority of times. Therefore, this study is aimed at determining the prevalence and awareness of anemia among the apparently healthy female students studying at a health institute. Methods: A cross-sectional study is conducted among 300 female students studying at a health institute in western Maharashtra after their written informed consent. A structured questionnaire elicits their general information, the knowledge about signs and symptoms of anemia, and dietary habits. Basal metabolic index and hemoglobin using the spectroscopy method are estimated for each participant. Results: Anemia prevalence in our population is 86 (28.6%). Based upon the severity of anemia, about 54 (18%) has mild anemia and 32 (10.6%) has moderate anemia. No case of severe anemia is noted in our study sample. Conclusion: The findings of the study highlight that anemia can affect even medical female students who are a vulnerable group unexpectedly suffering from nutritional deficiencies. Thus, this study highlights the need for interventional programs at primary health-care systems and colleges for improvement in the nutritional status of anemic students to reduce its complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The data on the prevalence of nutritional anemia among the urban elderly population in India was limited. Hence, the present study was carried out with an aim to assess the prevalence of nutritional anemia and its association with vitamin B12, folate, ferritin and homocystine among the urban elderly population. A community- based cross-sectional study was carried out among 282 urban elderly (≥ 60 years) subjects (186 males and 96 females) in Hyderabad. Fasting blood samples were collected and hemoglobin (Hb) was estimated by cyanmethemoglobin method. Plasma Folic acid and vitamin B12 levels were estimated by RIA and homocysteine and ferritin levels were estimated by ELISA methods. The overall prevalence of anemia (Hb < 12 g/dL for females and < 13 g/dL for males) among the urban elderly was 20.6% and the prevalence was found to be increasing with the age. The prevalence of vitamin B12 (< 203 pg/mL), folic acid (< 4 ng/mL), ferritin (< 15 ng/mL) and hyperhomocysteinemia (≥ 12 µmol/L) in these subjects was 36.0%, 8.2%, 1.1% and 24.3% respectively. The prevalence of anemia due to deficiencies of iron (ferritin < 15 ng/mL), folate and vitamin B12 was 5.45%, 9.1% and 42.3% respectively. A significant association was observed between the prevalence of anemia with ferritin and hyperhomocysteinemia. In conclusion, the prevalence of anemia and nutritional anemia among the urban-based elderly was 20.6% and 56.85% respectively. The association of anemia with hyperhomocysteinemia needs further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to investigate the nutritional quality of industrial-scale sprouted versus unsprouted chickpeas and green peas, before and after cooking, the ultrastructure, chemical composition, antioxidant capacity, starch digestibility, mineral content and accessibility were analysed. Sprouting did not deeply affect raw seed structure, although after cooking starch granules appeared more porous and swelled. Chemical composition of raw sprouted seeds was not strongly affected, excepting an increase in protein (both pulses), and in free sugars (in peas; +10% and +80%, respectively, p < .05). The industrial sprouting favoured phytic acid leaching in cooking water (-35% in seeds, compared to unsprouted cooked ones, p < .05), and promoted antioxidant capacity reductions in raw and cooked seeds (-10% and -37%, respectively, p < .05). In conclusion, sprouting on an industrial-scale induced mild structural modifications in chickpeas and peas, sufficient to reduce antinutritional factors, without strongly influencing their nutritional quality. These products could represent nutritionally interesting ingredients for different dietary patterns as well as for enriched cereal-based foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Zambia, chronic malnutrition still is one of the most common problem among children. To fight against malnutrition, the easiest short-term solution could be to combine specific types of food with affordable local plants. A large variety of natural food resources grow in Zambia, such as Moringa oleifera (MO), whose leaves are known for their health benefits, but are not consumed much by local populations. We analysed Zambian MO powder obtained from dried leaves and found that it contains large amounts of protein, minerals and vitamins, such as iron, calcium and carotenoids. These characteristics make MO a good and sustainable complementary solution to malnutrition. We also evaluated the acceptability and the safety of dietary supplementation with MO powder in malnourished children for 30 days. A daily dose of 14 g daily was safe and well accepted. Its regular use in the menu of local populations may be viable proposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Rates of migration have increased substantially in recent years and so has the number of left-behind children (LBC). We investigated the impact of parental migration on nutritional disorders of LBC in Bangladesh.Design: We analysed data from the nationally representative cross-sectional Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey 2012-2013. Child stunting, wasting and underweight were used as measures of nutritional disorders. Descriptive statistics were used to describe characteristics of the respondents and to compare nutritional outcomes based on status of parental migration. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to examine the associations between parental migration and child nutritional disorders.Setting: Bangladesh.ParticipantsData of 23 402 children (aged <5 years), their parents and households.Results: In the unadjusted models, parental migration was found significantly protective for stunting, wasting and underweight - both separately and jointly. After potential confounders were controlled for, no difference was found between LBC and non-LBC in any of these three nutritional outcome measures. Household wealth status and maternal educational status were found to significantly influence the nutritional development of the children.Conclusions: At the population level there is no negative impact of parental migration on stunting, wasting and underweight of LBC in Bangladesh. Remittance from parental migration might enhance affordability of better foods, health care and supplies for a cleaner environment. This affordability is crucial for the poorest section of the society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports a new type of tailor-made recognition element, molecularly imprinted poly-nanodots for nutritional anaemia biomarker bovine haemoglobin. Herein for the first time, rhodamine b dye is used as an electroactive monomer for formation of a new type of tailor-made recognition element viz. imprinted polymeric nanodots exhibits quantum dots properties. The molecularly imprinted polymeric nanodots were directly synthesized on the surface of graphite electrode by electropolymerization. The resultant molecularly imprinted polymeric-nanodots shows specific recognition to the bovine haemoglobin, their recognition selectivity was compared with non-imprinted polymeric nanodots. The best optimized molecularly imprinted poly-nanodots modified graphite electrodes were morphologically and electrochemically characterized via scanning electron microscopy, cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and differential pulse voltammetry. Good linearity was obtained for bovine haemoglobin in a range of 0.085-115.5 ng mL−1 and the average recoveries at three spiked levels in aqueous and blood samples of cattle were higher than 98% (RSD < 5%). Limit of quantification and Limit of detection was 0.085 and 0.012 ng mL−1, respectively. Cross-reactivity studies with other proteins interferences were tested. A new type of electrochemical sensing platform exhibited superior selectivity and reproducibility facilitating the determination of BHP in real samples of cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is one of the most common types of nutritional anemia in the worldwide and considered a major public health problem in developing countries especially in Yemen. Therefore, this cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence and risk factors of IDA among apparently healthy Yemeni students at Hodeida University. Method. Five hundred blood samples (326 males and 174 females) were collected randomly from medical students at Hodeida University. Participants were subjected to different tests including complete blood counts (CBC), serum ferritin (SF), serum iron (SI), and total iron binding capacity (TIBC). Moreover, a questionnaire was designed to collect demographics, food and drink habits, and socioeconomic status. Result. The overall prevalence of IDA was 30.4%  (n=152), of whom 54.00% were females (n=82) and 46.0% were males (n=70). Students aged 20–22 years were found more anemic with prevalence 59.2% than students aged 17–19 years (25.0%) and 23–25 years (15.8%). Statistical analysis showed regularly having breakfast had significant (p < 0.001) role in preventing development of IDA compared with irregularly having breakfast. Infrequent consumption of vegetables/fruits; meat, fish, chicken; tea drinking; low household income; smoking and khat (Catha edulis) chewing showed a significant role (p < 0.001) in provoking of IDA, whereas consumption of coffee and cola showed insignificant influence (p=0.585; p=0.513) on IDA. Conclusion. This study revealed that the majority of university students, especially females, have IDA that might become worse by malnutrition, lifestyle habits, and lack of awareness. Our results suggest that IDA can be prevented by providing proper knowledge on the healthful diet, improved lifestyle, and harmful effect of IDA to the students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food security projects have to use tools to interact with communities in order to approach a chain of interconnected problems, as well as to engage the plurality of community voices/actors in a growing future challenges scenarios. This work presents innovative educational tool developed to engaging community voices to understand food insecurity and to create local solutions. The 16 workshops inspired on the theory of the Pedagogy of the Oppressed , involved a total of 270 participants across the four case studies in remote Tanzanian villages. The results show that community voices and local problem perceptions significantly differed between the case study regions, which had a strong impact on coping strategies and nutritional status. In Morogoro, e.g., food insecurity was mainly related to conflicts. Smallholders with anemia prefer to avoid meat and milk as these products come from livestock keepers who have destroyed their crop farm production. More than 70 local diverse solutions were identified. The acceptance of the educational tools used was highly appreciated at local level compared to more conventional procedures (e.g. questionnaires). The pedagogical methods applied in this work served to raise the communities’ voices, to promote consciences about communities’ problems, and reframing their images of the future. The understanding of community perceptions might help with the implementation of sustainable nutrition-sensitive innovations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]