Anemia in Children and Its Treatment

Some problems that may seem normal and are sometimes not considered very important can actually be signs of anemia in children. According to Dr. Mehmet Kılıç, a Pediatric Health and Diseases Specialist at Anadolu Health Center, nearly half of children between the ages of 0-1 in our country suffer from anemia. He explains that anemia can hinder children's growth and development.

Anemia, or "Anemia" in medical terms, is a condition that occurs when the number of red blood cells (erythrocytes) drops below the normal range for that age group, either collectively or separately. As a result, the blood's oxygen-carrying capacity and the amount of oxygen delivered to tissues decrease. In our country, many children between the ages of 0-1 experience anemia. If not addressed and prevented, this problem can grow and reach dangerous levels.

There Are 3 Main Causes of Anemia in Children
The three main causes of anemia in children are: first, insufficient production, second, excessive destruction, and third, blood loss. The frequency of anemia varies by age group and cause, but in our country, most cases are a type of physiological anemia that occurs in the 0-1 age group.

More Common in Undernourished Girls

Anemia can be seen in all ages and genders if risk factors are present, but it is more common in healthy infants, especially adolescent girls who are not adequately and properly nourished.

Symptoms of Anemia
Anemia primarily presents with symptoms such as loss of appetite, pallor, and restlessness, and can affect all systems with symptoms like increased heart rate, constipation, weight loss, growth retardation, and a decline in behavioral and cognitive functions.

Treatment Must Be Cause-Specific
Treatment should be targeted toward the underlying cause. Different approaches are used for insufficient production and excessive destruction. For example, in iron deficiency anemia, which is very common in our country, iron supplementation is provided to infants starting at the age of 3 months. The most important thing for all ages is balanced and proper nutrition.

Only Breast Milk Should Be Given for the First 6 Months

Children's nutrition should be based on their age and needs. For example, only breast milk should be given for the first 6 months. If breastfeeding is not possible, iron-fortified formulas should be used. After 6 months, complementary foods are introduced. As the child grows, iron-rich foods such as green leafy vegetables, legumes, red and white meat, and liver should be included. Foods containing vitamin C, such as oranges, tomatoes, and lemons, should also be included to enhance iron absorption.

Cow's Milk Reduces Iron Absorption

The belief that "drinking milk causes anemia" is not entirely accurate. Cow's milk reduces iron absorption, so it should be consumed in a way that does not interfere with iron absorption. For the first 12 months, we do not recommend milk to children. After the age of 1, it should be viewed not as a meal but as a drink after digestion. For example, it is fine for children to drink a glass of milk before bedtime. The daily milk intake should not exceed 500 ml.

Last Updated Date: 29 July 2022

Publication Date: 29 July 2022