Background: Iron deficiency (ID), iron deficiency anemia (IDA), and anemia of inflammationwithout iron deficiency are widespread nutritional and hematological disorders affecting children globally. This study aimed to assess the impact of socioeconomic status, dietary habits,and physical activity on iron-related disorders among children aged 2–10 years in Zakho City, Kurdistan Region, IraqMethods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 171 children, categorized into four groups based on clinical and biochemical criteria: control (n = 68), ID (n = 50), IDA (n = 31), andanemia of inflammation without iron deficiency (n = 22), defined as chronic inflammation thattraps iron within storage sites, resulting in low hemoglobin. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and laboratory assessments, including serum iron and complete bloodcount (CBC).Results: Statistically significant associations were found between iron-related disorders andseveral socioeconomic and nutritional factors (p < 0.0001). Children diagnosed with iron deficiency and anemia were more likely to come from households with low income and low parental educational levels, consume fewer daily meals, and have a reduced intake of iron-rich foodssuch as meat, vegetables, legumes, and fruits. Binary logistic regression analysis identifiedkey predictors of iron-related disorders, including consumption of only one meal per day (OR =5.73, 95% CI: 1.69–19.50), never consuming meat (OR = 28.8, 95% CI: 6.82–121.63), and spending less than 1 h per day on physical activity (OR = 18.13, 95% CI: 2.59–126.72). Conclusions:Socioeconomic status, dietary patterns, and physical activity levels significantly influence therisk of iron-related disorders in children. These findings highlight the need for targeted nutritional education and public health interventions to reduce childhood anemia and improve ironstatus in vulnerable populations.
Saeed et al. (2025) studied this question.