Etiology of Anemia Among Preschool Children in Ethiopia

Overview

This study aims to determine the etiology of anemia among preschool children in selected regions of Ethiopia. The study is a longitudinal observational study to assess the determinant factors of anemia in two different seasons. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1. What is the prevalence and etiology of anemia in the two different (Post and Pre-harvest) seasons? 2. What is the strength of the interaction between anemia and each of the determinant factors being considered? The participant's dietary intake and anthropometric measurement have been assessed, and biological samples (Blood and Stool) were collected to determine the prevalence of anemia and the factors contributing to it.

Background: Although the country made a significant change in the burden of malnutrition in all its forms in the past two decades, the issue remains unacceptably high across all regions of Ethiopia. The national prevalence of anemia among children 6-59 months was very high 57% and one of the public health concerns in 2016. Although the country is known as a data-rich country, in some specific indicators, there is a lack of data and evidence to alleviate the nutritional gaps through an informed decision-making process. In this particular case, there is a lack of evidence relating to child anemia in Ethiopia, especially since there is no comprehensive information about the determinant factors of anemia. Objective: The objective of the current survey is to determine the etiology of anemia and its public health implications among under-five children in selected ecological zones of Ethiopia at different seasons. Method: This survey will be a community-based, longitudinal panel study and will be conducted in two different (post-harvest and pre-harvest) seasons in the 2014 Ethiopian calendar year. A nationally representative sample was calculated and allocated to three purposely selected regions (Amhara, Southern Nation, Nationalities, and Peoples' Region (SNNPR), and Somali) in consideration of three different ecological zones (lowlands, midlands, and highlands). The study population will be children aged 6 - 59 months with caregivers/mothers with a sample size of 1212 under-five children from 1212 households. The indicators collected for the survey are dietary intake, anthropometric measurement, and biological samples (Blood and Stool). Expected benefit: The findings of this survey will provide information on the etiology of anemia that will inform short-term policy decisions, especially for case-specific nutrition-sensitive interventions, and that will contribute to long-term policy decisions for comprehensive nutrition intervention programs.