Prevalence and Associated Factors of Anaemia among Children Aged 6 to 59 Months: A Study at Kampala International University-Teaching Hospital

Mugisha Ruth

Faculty of Clinical Medicine and Dentistry, Kampala International University Western Campus Uganda

ABSTRACT

The study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of anaemia among children aged 6 to 59 months attending Kampala International University-Teaching Hospital (KIU-TH). Anaemia remains a significant global public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This study contributes to understanding the incidence of anaemia and its contributing factors in this specific population. The prevalence of anaemia among the studied children was found to be 29.6%, with 4.5% experiencing severe anaemia. This underscores the ongoing burden of anaemia in young children, despite efforts to address it. The study revealed various socio-demographic factors associated with anaemia. Children living in rural areas were twice as likely to develop anaemia compared to those in urban areas. Similarly, children whose caretakers were business operators had a higher likelihood of anaemia. Furthermore, medical and nutritional factors were strongly associated with anaemia. Children with a history of febrile illness or current chronic illnesses were more likely to develop anaemia. Additionally, malnutrition, particularly severe acute malnutrition (SAM) and moderate acute malnutrition (MAM), significantly increased the risk of anaemia. On the contrary, children with normal weight for height had a lower likelihood of developing anaemia. These findings highlight the multifactorial nature of anaemia in young children and the importance of addressing various determinants to mitigate its prevalence. Interventions should focus on improving access to healthcare services, including immunization and deworming programs, as well as addressing malnutrition through nutrition education and supplementation initiatives. Additionally, socioeconomic factors such as rural residence and caregiver occupation should be considered in developing targeted interventions. In conclusion, anaemia remains a prevalent issue among children attending KIU-TH, with various socio-demographic, medical, and nutritional factors influencing its occurrence. Comprehensive intervention strategies addressing these factors are essential to reduce the burden of anaemia and improve the health outcomes of young children in this setting. Further research and ongoing monitoring are necessary to assess the effectiveness of interventions and track changes in anaemia prevalence over time.

Keywords: Children’s anaemia, public health, and low- and middle-income nations

CITE AS: Mugisha Ruth (2024). Prevalence and Associated Factors of Anaemia among Children Aged 6 to 59 Months: A Study at Kampala International University-Teaching Hospital. IDOSR JOURNAL OF BIOCHEMISTRY, BIOTECHNOLOGY AND ALLIED FIELDS 9(1):78-93. https://doi.org/10.59298/IDOSR/JBBAF/24/91.7893