Clinical Nutrition

Lesson 7: Anemia

Consequences of iron deficiency anemia

• Pregnancy outcome Anemia during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk to the fetus and the mother. The incidence of low birth weight, premature births and perinatal mortality is higher when the mother is even slightly anemic. Anemia is also a cause of maternal deaths. Changes in neurotransmitter levels of fetal brain are seen if mother is anemic.
• Mental and motor development
Anemia, even mild anemia, affects the psychomotor and cognitive function of infants. Iron deficiency anemia at a critical period of brain growth may produce irreversible abnormalities. Lack of sufficient iron can affect attention, concentration and memory among school aged children.
• Effect on growth
Anemic children have a poor growth status as indicated by their weight and height. During adolescence iron deficiency slows down the tempo of growth and the ‘catch up’ growth may not be optimum. Low iron stores in girls may contribute to a delayed age at menarche.