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Maternal and Child Health Journal

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Open Access 01-04-2020 | Anemia

Factors Associated with Anemia Status Among Children Aged 6–59 months in Ghana, 2003–2014

Authors: Luke M. Shenton, Andrew D. Jones, Mark L. Wilson

Published in: Maternal and Child Health Journal | Issue 4/2020

Abstract

Background

In 2008, 78% of Ghanaian children under 5 years old were anemic versus 48% of children globally. In this study, we identified proximal and distal determinants of severe–moderate anemia and mild anemia related to socioeconomic status, nutrition, and health access.

Methods

Using data from the 2003, 2008, and 2014 Ghana Demographic and Health Surveys (GDHS), the odds of severe–moderate anemia and mild anemia compared to no anemia, in relation to various hypothesized risk factors, were assessed using a multivariable, multinomial logistic regression, which accounted for survey design.

Results

From among 7739 households sampled, severe–moderate anemia was found in approximately 52%, 56%, and 40% of children during 2003, 2008, and 2014, respectively. The proportion of children diagnosed as not anemic was 26% in 2003, 22% in 2008, and 33% in 2014. There are large disparities in anemia prevalence among regions and between urban and rural areas. In 2014, children who were younger (aged 6–24 months), had a recent fever, were from poorer families, and whose mothers were less educated had greater odds of being severely–moderately anemic. These results remained significant when controlling for other risk factors. Predictors of anemia in Ghana remained relatively consistent among the three time periods when the GDHS was administered.

Conclusions

The prevalence of anemia in Ghana among children aged 6–59 months has remained unacceptably high. To reduce anemia in these children, the Ghanaian government should concentrate on educating women through both the traditional school system and antenatal care visits.

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Title: Factors Associated with Anemia Status Among Children Aged 6–59 months in Ghana, 2003–2014
Authors: Luke M. Shenton
Andrew D. Jones
Mark L. Wilson
Publication date: 01-04-2020
Publisher: Springer US
Keywords: Anemia
Nutrition
Published in: Maternal and Child Health Journal / Issue 4/2020
Print ISSN: 1092-7875
Electronic ISSN: 1573-6628
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10995-019-02865-7

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Factors Associated with Anemia Status Among Children Aged 6–59 months in Ghana, 2003–2014

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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