Prevalence of anemia among preschoolers and response to iron supplementation.

OBJECTIVES To assess the prevalence of anemia among children attending public preschools in Ilhabela, state of São Paulo, Brazil, and their response to a treatment regimen. METHODS Between 2007 and 2008, the weight, height, and hemoglobin levels of 667 children were measured in the school setting. Anemic children were prescribed a 12-week course of ferrous sulfate, and follow-up assessment visits were scheduled for halfway through this course and the end of treatment. RESULTS The prevalence of anemia was 25.6% (N = 170). The lowest hemoglobin level measured was 9.5 g/dL. Anemia was most prevalent (36%) in children between the ages of 60 and 65 months. Median hemoglobin levels rose to 11.8 g/dL from 10.5 g/dL after treatment; 76% of children recovered from anemia. CONCLUSION Screening for anemia in the school setting and prompt therapy, including mid-treatment follow-up, proved to be an effective strategy for facing this major public health issue.