Evaluation of Zinc and Iron deficiency in Children up to 12 years

Abstract

This cross-sectional observational study assessed the frequency of iron and zinc deficits in 100 children at the Hayatabad Medical Complex in Peshawar, Pakistan, who were between the ages of three and twelve. Serum iron, ferritin, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), hemoglobin, hematocrit, serum zinc, plasma zinc, and zinc protoporphyrin (ZPP) were among the anthropometric and biochemical characteristics measured. Significant micronutrient deficits were found in the children: 25% had hemoglobin levels suggestive of iron-deficiency anemia, 16% had low ferritin, and 20% had low serum iron. Additionally, common was zinc deficiency, which affected 30% of people based on serum zinc levels and 35% based on plasma zinc levels. A dietary analysis revealed inadequate intake of protein sources, fruits, and vegetables. The results show that this pediatric group has a significant burden of zinc and iron deficiencies, highlighting the need for focused nutritional treatments, public health initiatives, and increased dietary diversity to address these deficiencies and enhance health outcomes.