Impact of Iron Deficiency Anemia on Neurobehavioral and Cognitive Development in Children Aged 6 to 24 Months

Launched by PINGSHAN DISTRICT MATERNAL & CHILD HEALTHCARE HOSPITAL OF SHENZHEN · Oct 25, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is investigating how iron-deficiency anemia affects the development of young children, specifically those aged 6 to 24 months. Researchers want to understand if low iron levels in the blood influence important skills like motor abilities, language, and social interactions. They will also look at how anemia may impact a child's growth, including their weight and height. The study is taking place in pediatric health clinics in Pingshan District, Shenzhen, China, where children will undergo blood tests and developmental assessments.

To be part of this study, children must be between 6 and 24 months old and either diagnosed with iron-deficiency anemia or confirmed to be non-anemic through blood tests. Parents will need to give their consent for their child's participation. Throughout the trial, children will have their blood drawn to check for anemia and will be assessed using a special scale that measures various aspects of their development. The goal is to gather information that could help in creating early interventions to support healthy growth and development in children with anemia.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Children aged 6 to 24 months at the time of enrollment
• • Diagnosed with iron-deficiency anemia (for the exposure group) or confirmed
• • non-anemic status (for the control group) based on blood test results
• • Resident in the study area for at least 6 months prior to enrollment
• • Availability of parental or guardian consent to participate in the study and willingness to follow study protocols
• • Completion of all baseline assessments, including neurodevelopmental and physical growth evaluations
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Presence of congenital or chronic illnesses that could affect
• • neurodevelopment, such as Down syndrome or cerebral palsy.
• • History of severe infections or trauma within 3 months prior to enrollment that
• • could influence neurodevelopmental outcomes
• • Current use of medications or treatments that may interfere with iron metabolism (e.g., iron supplementation or blood transfusions in the last 6 months)
• • Premature birth (before 37 weeks of gestation) or low birth weight (\< 2,500 grams)
• • Parental refusal to provide consent or non-compliance with study procedures.