Global prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia among children aged 5-12 years: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) can lead to impairment of immunity, cognitive function, and poorer academic performance. Current health policies worldwide focus primarily on IDA prevention among preschoolers and women, overlooking school-aged children (aged 5-12 years) as a susceptible group. Through this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to determine the prevalence of IDA among this population.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and EBSCO Open Dissertation from inception until July 2023 for English-language observational studies reporting on the prevalence of IDA children aged 5-12. We calculated the pooled prevalence using a random-effect model and performed subgroup analyses by regions, countries' income, and diagnostic criteria. We assessed

SUBMITTER: Sukwuttichai P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12828442 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature