Persistent and new-onset anaemia in children aged 6 - 8 years from KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa

Abstract

Background. Anaemia impairs normal development in children and has wide ranging social and economic implications. Existing anaemia control strategies primarily target anaemia in infancy. The contribution, however, of anaemia in preschool- and school-aged children as well as its long-term effects has not been extensively evaluated.

Objectives. To determine the prevalence of anaemia in the same children on two occasions at least 18 months apart.

Method. We carried out a longitudinal study in a rural community of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. Haemoglobin (Hb) levels were measured using the HaemoCue at baseline when the children were aged 4 - 6 years, and the follow-up assessment was done at age 6 - 8 years. HIV screening and helminth testing was offered to all the children.

Results. Hb levels at both baseline and follow-up were available for 181 children. The baseline anaemia prevalence was 56.9% (mean Hb 11.2, standard deviation (SD) 1.14) and at follow-up the anaemia prevalence was 41.9% (mean Hb 11.7, SD 1.19). There were 21/180 (11.7%) children with new-onset anaemia at follow up, while anaemia from baseline persisted in 43/103 (41.8%).

Conclusions. The findings suggest a high burden of anaemia in these school-aged children, which might be reduced with early interventions. Interventions targeting screening and management of anaemia, chronic infections and nutritional deficiencies are recommended.