A Cross-Sectional Study Of Iron Status Of Children Between The Ages Of 12-24 Months In Ikwuano L.G.A Of Abia State, Nigeria

ABSTRACT

A cross sectional study was conducted in some rural communities in Ikwuano Local Government Area (LGA) in Ahia state to determine iron status and prevalence of anaemia among children aged 12-24 months. Nutritional status of the chil.ren was assessed by anthropometrical and dietary intake techniques. Helminthes load; malaria parasites and C-reactive protein were determined using standard methods. The haemoglohin (Hb) values ranged from 6mg/i OOml to 13 mg/I OOml with a mean value of 8.55 mg/lOOml. M'an serum ferritin level (9.34 ± l.5Opg/l) was below the recommended cut-off point. Forty- four percent (44%) of the children had worm infestation and 35% had malaria parasite in theii blood. The C- reactive protein correlated positively with malaria and worm infestation. The mean protein and energy intake were less than the recommended levels for their age. Poor iron status and high anaemia could be attributed to low intake of iron rich foods e.g. organ meat, red meat and green leafy vegetables and high worm infestation.