The prevalence and risk factors of iron deficiency anemia among rural schoolchildren in Kudat, Sabah

Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is the most common nutritional anaemia in the world that affects individuals in both developed and developing countries including Malaysia. Several previous researches have shown association between iron deficiency anaemia and risk factors in demographic, socio-economic, nutritional status and soil-transmitted helminthes exposure. The data of IDA among schoolchildren is crucial in order to know the iron status of the schoolchildren and its associated risk factors as IDA may contribute to poor mental and school academic performance. Hence, the objective of the study was to diagnose the present prevalence of IDA and to analyse the association of probable demographic, socio-economic, nutritional and soil-transmitted helminthes exposure risk factors with schoolchildren. This cross-sectional study was carried out from August 2017 to February 2018, among 261 schoolchildren who aged 8 to 10 years old in Kudat district, Sabah. Out of 82 anaemic children, 36 were suffering from iron deficiency anaemia. Household income, body mass index status, knowledge and practice regarding IDA, soil-transmitted helminthes exposures, and limited intake of iron were found to be associated significantly with the prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia. By improving the quality of life including improved household economy, education, sanitation and personal hygiene status and promoting consistent nutritional education among the population may help to reduce prevalence of IDA