The New WHO Cut-off Point for Defining High-altitude Anemia may be Inadequate.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Peru carries a high burden of childhood anemia, particularly in high-altitude regions where hemoglobin (Hb) adjustment for altitude is recommended. This study aimed to evaluate whether the proportion of anemia attributable to iron deficiency (ID), inflammation, and red blood cell indices varies by altitude in children, using different diagnostic criteria.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study of 280 children aged 6 to 72 months residing in Arequipa, Peru at altitudes ranging from 9 to 4310 m above sea level. Venous blood samples were collected to assess Hb, complete blood count, and serum biomarkers of iron status and inflammation. Spearman's rank correlation was used to examine relationships between altitude and hematologic or biochemical parameters. Log

SUBMITTER: Gonzales GF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12454947 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan-Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature