Hidden burden: Prevalence of anemia in Taif pediatric population

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the prevalence and characteristics of previously undiagnosed anemia among children in Taif. The objective was to estimate the prevalence of undiagnosed anemia in a broader pediatric population (aged 2-12 years) across 3 hospitals, and to evaluate severity and morphological patterns. A cross-sectional study was conducted across Taif region's main hospitals serving children; including Taif Children's Hospital, King Faisal Hospital, and Taif Armed Forces Hospitals. A total of 264 children aged 2 to 12 years, presenting to outpatient clinics or emergency departments for acute, non-hematological conditions, were included. Children with previously diagnosed anemia or chronic diseases were excluded. Blood samples were collected to measure hemoglobin (Hb) levels, and anemia was diagnosed based on age-specific Hb thresholds. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and independent t tests were used for data analysis. Out of 264 children, 28 (10.6%) were found to have undiagnosed anemia. The majority (75%) were aged 2 to 5 years, and a higher prevalence was noted among males (67.9%) compared to females (32.1%), though the gender difference was not statistically significant. There was a significant association between younger age and anemia (P < .001). Mean Hb levels were significantly lower in anemic children (10.13 ± 0.90 g/dL) than in non-anemic children (13.11 ± 0.93 g/dL; P < .001). Most cases were mild (71.4%), followed by moderate anemia (28.6%). Normocytic normochromic anemia was the most common type (53.6%), followed by microcytic hypochromic (39.3%) and macrocytic anemia (7.1%). This study highlights a notable prevalence of undiagnosed anemia among children in Taif, particularly in the preschool age group. The findings underscore the need for routine screening in pediatric outpatient and emergency settings, even in the absence of overt symptoms. Early detection and intervention are essential to prevent long-term developmental complications. Public health efforts should focus on nutritional education, iron supplementation, and comprehensive diagnostic evaluations to address this hidden burden.