were more likely to be anemic, while children aged between 3-5 years had a lower risk. This emphasizes how local health conditions and family factors influence anemia risk.The study by Akindutire et al, done in Gambia, uses structural equation modelling to identify sociodemographic determinants of childhood anemia. It identified parental educational attainment, housing location, type of restroom, gender, level of education, marital status, drinking water source, state, number of children, and income status as factors affecting anemia in children. Overall, the research topic has provided insight into the need for multifaceted responses in combating anemia in children. For genetic diseases like thalassemia and sickle cell disease, early diagnosis by genetic testing plays a pivotal role (6). Neonatal screening programs for sickle cell disease, thalassemia, and other inherited conditions can identify affected infants before complications arise. Genetic testing for infants presenting with unexplained severe anemia should be standard practice where resources permit (7).From a public health viewpoint, improving overall social conditions would have a positive impact on reducing the burden of anemia, especially in underdeveloped countries.Nutrition interventions should be locally designed, including caregiver education on good dietary practices and discouraging harmful habits, like excessive tea consumption with meals (8,9). Addressing infectious diseases, particularly malaria, remains crucial (10).Without these decisive actions, the combined burden of nutritional and genetic anemia will continue to affect growth, learning, and life opportunities for millions of children around the world.
Mettananda et al. (Fri,) studied this question.