Hemoglobin Screening Test in a Population of Infants
Abstract
Iron deficiency is the most frequent cause of anemia in pediatrics. Its early detection, correct treatment and
adequate prophylaxis, constitute a health priority in our country. Objective: Describe the hemoglobin screening
performed in infants aged between 8 and 12 months, users of a pediatric care center from Montevideo, in the
period covered between May 2 and October 31, 2015 and evaluate factors of Risk of iron deficiency anemia
present.. Their clinical histories were reviewed, including epidemiological data, perinatal records, and diet received and if they received adequate iron supplementation. It was recorded if the hemoglobin measurement
had been performed by digital puncture and the measured value. The prevalence of risk factors among children
with and without anemia was compared.
In the evaluated period, 62 children were assisted: 3 preterm subjects of 34 weeks or less; 15 birth weight
less than 3,000 grams; 42 exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months; 54 adequate complementary feeding; 45 iron
supplementation. The hemoglobin was measured by digital puncture to 55 children. 28 of them had anemia (82%
mild). No association of anemia was found with the risk factors studied except compliance with prophylaxis
with iron supplementation. We conclude that the prevalence of anemia in this group was high and that iron
supplementation is important for its prevention.
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Copyright (c) 2022 Marcos Delfino, Camila Silveira, Natalia Liebstreich, Ana Laura Casuriaga, Karina Machado, María Catalina Pírez
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