Mapping of Anemia Prevalence in Rural Honduran Children Ages 6 to 60 Months

Within Honduras, anemia is a nationwide issue with a previously reported anemia prevalence of 39% in children age 6-59 months. Those living within the lowest quintile of wealth are at highest risk. The purpose of the study was to determine the prevalence of anemia in children aged 6-60 months living in rural Honduras, map the data collection points and classification of anemia severity by study area, and identify risk factors associated with anemia. Whole blood for analysis of hemoglobin level was obtained from 841 children living within four health regions including 16 health centers. Altitude, latitude, and longitude were obtained at each household using a handheld global positioning system. Age range of the children evaluated was 6.12-59.93 months. Overall prevalence of anemia in children was 29.8%. Based on health region, the prevalence of anemia was 29.5% in Santiago de Puringla, 33.1% in Lepaterique, 25.9% in Chinacla, and 26.5% in Santa Maria. Anemia classified by public health severity was mild in one health center, moderate in 13 health centers, and severe in two health centers. Based on World Health Organization standards, 56.5% of the children were stunted, 20.5% underweight, and 1.5% wasted. The child’s anemia status was positively associated with the mother’s having anemia (p=0.004). Other risk factors associated with anemia included altitude (p=0.012), child’s age (p<0.001), underweight (p=0.049), clinic distance > 1 hour walking from home (p=0.006), consumed meat < once per week (p=0.049), house constructed from material other than brick (p=0.049), no electricity in the household (p=0.049) and child breastfed > 24 months (p<0.001). Regression analysis was also utilized to determine significant predictors of anemia: mother’s literacy (p=0.032), father’s literacy (p=0.044), mother was anemic (p=0.014), child’s age (p<0.001), and walking distance from the clinic is > 1 hour (p=0.004).By targeting health centers at highest risk for anemia the Honduran Ministry of Heath can use this data to implement prevention measures as a means of reducing childhood morbidity.