|
Introduction: Anemia is a considerable public health issue affecting children globally, particularly in developing countries. It leads to impaired cognitive and physical development, increased infection risk, and poor quality of life. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly iron deficiency, are the primary causes of pediatric anemia. This study aims to evaluate the clinical, hematological, and biochemical profiles of anemia in the pediatric population, and to analyze the relationship between anemia, nutritional status, and socioeconomic factors.Methods A Cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Paediatrics. Infants between 6 months to 12 months who are admitted in an inpatient ward. Infants of age group between 6 months to 12 month admitted to hospital were included. Infants who have H/O Bleeding disorder, H/O Blood transfusions, Hemolytic anemia, acute blood loss were excluded. The parents were interviewed for collection of necessary information using the pre-tested, semi structured questionnaire method. The questionnaire was prepared by a thorough review of literature. Results The present study included 100 cases (100%), of which 59 cases (59%) were male and 41 cases (41%) were females. Most common age group affected was 1-5 years of age group with maximum 16 cases (15.6%). Microcytic Hypochromic, Normocytic Normochromic anemia, Normocytic hypochromic anemia, Macrocytic Hypochromic anemia & Macrocytic Normochromic anemia, were reported in 48.9%, 22.2%, 13.3%, 8.9% & 6.7% respectively. Iron deficiency anemia was the commonest nutritional deficiency anemia seen in 39 cases (39%). Anemia of chronic inflammation/infection was the second most common etiology of anemia with 24 cases (24%). Conclusions Besides haematological investigations for typing of anemia, Haemoglobin electrophoresis establishes the disease in haemoglobinopathies. Adequate health and healthy nutritional habits and prescription of Iron supplements are of great importance in prevention and management of anemia in children assisted by public health services |