Prevalence and Associated Factors of Anemia Among Hospitalized Children aged 6 months to 5 Years in Huaiyot, Trang

Abstract

Iron deficiency anemia is a significant public health problem, affecting brain development and the immune system. In Huaiyot District, Trang Province, the prevalence increased from 6.27% in 2022 to 21.41% in 2024. Objective: To determine the prevalence and associated factors of anemia among hospitalized children aged 6 months to 5 Years in Huaiyot, Trang. Methods: A Cross-sectional Analytical Study was conducted on 686 hospitalized children aged 6 months to 5 Years during the fiscal years 2022–2024. Data were collected from medical records and laboratory results. Children with Hb < 11 g/dL, Hct < 33% were classified as anemia. Factors associated with anemia were analyzed using multiple logistic regression, with results presented as Adjusted Odds Ratios (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: The prevalence of anemia was 30.8% (95% CI: 27.3–34.4). Significant factors included age between 6–12 months, which carried a 9.20-fold increased risk (AOR = 9.20, 95% CI: 3.45–24.51) compared to the 48–60 months age group, and not consuming iron supplement syrup every week, which carried a 7.04-fold increased risk (AOR = 7.04, 95% CI: 2.13–23.23). Furthermore, anemia was significantly associated with lower respiratory tract infections, the requirement for High-Flow Nasal Cannula (HFNC) and prolonged hospital stays. Conclusion: Anemia remains a critical public health issue in this region, particularly among infants under one year and those with inadequate iron supplementation. Hospitals should implement proactive inpatient screening and enhance monitoring systems for iron supplement adherence to prevent long-term developmental impacts.