The Prevalence of Anemia among School Students in a National Screening Program in Iran

Abstract

Anemia affects child development and limits their social activity, education and future life. In this study, the prevalence of anemia is determined among school aged children in a screening program. Background: All first and third grade students in primary schools, first grade students in secondary schools related to Iranian universities of medical science were selected. The data were gathered by universities in 1386. Methods: The prevalence of anemia was 1.8% and 2.4% in first grade and third grade students in primary schools. It was 1.6% in first grade students in secondary schools. The high prevalence was reported from Tehran, Shahid beheshti and Iran Universities of medical science. Findings: It is considered more detailed interventions are necessary especially in high prevalence regions to determine the different types of anemia and their risk factors. Conclusion: Screening, Anemia, School children, Iran Key words: