Anemia is a global health concern and has been associated with long term cognitive and behavioral adverse effects.
A cross sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence of and risk factors for anemia in infants and
children between 6 months to 5 years of age admitted to a tertiary hospital in Botswana. Baseline full blood count of
every patient admitted during the study period was assessed to determine if anemia was present. Data were collected
from patient’s medical inpatient chart, electronic medical record (Integrated Patient Management System (IPMS)), and
through interviewing parents and caregivers. Multivariate logistic regression model was used to identify risk factors
of anemia. A total of 250 patients were included in the study. Prevalence of anemia in this cohort was 42.8%. There
were 145 (58%) males. Of the patients with anemia, 56.1%, 39.2%, and 4.7% had mild, moderate, and severe anemia,
respectively. Microcytic anemia consistent with iron deficiency was identified in 61 (57%) patients. Age was the only
independent predictor of anemia. Children aged 24 months and more had a 50% lower risk of having anemia than
their younger counterparts (odds ratio (OR) 0.52; 95% Confidence Interval (95% CI) 0.30 to 0.89). The findings of
this study demonstrate anemia as a serious health concern in the pediatric population in Botswana.
Keywords
anemia, iron deficiency, risk factors for anemia, pediatrics, hemoglobin

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