In this thread, I have discussed the prevalence of nutritional anaemia in the paediatric population, with the aim that it will raise awareness and educate others on the importance of proper nutrition and the challenges individuals face in preventing and treating anaemia. @gavin-knight.bsky.social

Treatment involves supplements and nutrition education, but in low-income areas, this is a challenge. Geopolitical issues, lack of education, cultural beliefs, and social pressures can hinder progress. Families unable to afford supplements or proper food risk worsening outcomes for their children.

In low-income countries or populations facing socioeconomic challenges, access to healthcare may be limited by cost, discrimination, or poor infrastructure, often resulting in children not receiving necessary treatment. While the body can compensate, without intervention, symptoms will worsen.

Between ages 0-5, children develop rapidly. B12, B9, and iron are necessary to support the rapid development of the brain, physical growth, and the extent the child can learn. Breastmilk contains little iron, but an infant has enough stores for up to 4-6 months before they need a source of iron.

Maternal factors i.e. anaemia during pregnancy puts children more at risk of nutritional anaemia. The NHS has screening programmes to identify those at risk and provide treatment and education. Unfortunately, lower-income countries may not offer such opportunities thus increasing risk.

Malaria is an infectious disease caused by parasites, carried by Anopheles Mosquitoes. The parasites enter RBCs and cause them to rupture, leading to anaemia. In children already suffering from anaemia, the condition worsens due to a lack of healthy RBCs and insufficient nutrients to produce more.

Diet (shaped by cultural practices and education), genetics, chronic and infectious diseases, maternal factors, and socioeconomic challenges, all influence health outcomes. In 2019, the WHO reported a global anaemia prevalence of 39.8% in children, with the highest rates found in Africa at 60.2%.

Vitamin B12, B9 (folate), and iron are key for healthy RBCs. B12 is in animal products🥚, B9 in leafy greens & beans 🥦, and iron in meat, liver, nuts & beans 🥩. Many cereal grains are fortified with these nutrients, mandated in 85 countries. Supplements are also an option, where available.

Symptoms of nutritional anaemia include tiredness, paleness, and shortness of breath. If not detected and treated in time, growth and developmental delays, heart problems, behavioural changes, and a weakened immune response may occur. In some cases, untreated anaemia can be fatal.