Prevalence of Anemia and Associated Factors Among Children Aged 6 Months to 5 Years from a Representative Sample in Jordan: A Secondary Analysis of the 2023 Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) Dataset

Background: Anemia is a universal health problem, especially among children. It affects a country’s development and economic prospects. Understanding its prevalence and associated factors in Jordan is necessary before implementing targeted interventions. Aim: To determine the prevalence of anemia and associated factors among children aged 6 months to 5 years in Jordan using the 2023 Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data. Methods: We conducted a secondary analysis of the 2023 Jordan DHS database. We defined anemia according to WHO age-specific hemoglobin levels. Chi-square and t-tests were used in univariable analysis. We used logistic regression to assess the independent effects of variables on anemia status. Results: Of 8831 children, 33.6% had anemia; prevalence among children aged 2–5 years was 30.4%, compared with 40.5% among those aged 6 months to 2 years. Independent factors associated with anemia included lower mother’s highest education attainment, a higher number of children in the household, geographical location, and mothers with anemia. Inversely associated factors included older child age and baby formula consumption. Children who consumed fortified foods and nutritional products had lower incidence rates. Differences were observed by geolocation, including among Arab nationals other than Jordanians, by wealth index, and by maternal anemia. Conclusions: Anemia is a public health problem in Jordan. Differences exist at the socioeconomic, maternal, and nutritional levels. The results revealed factors associated with anemia and highlighted the need for interventions to address maternal anemia and improve access to fortified foods.