In:
Public Health Nutrition, Cambridge University Press (CUP), Vol. 17, No. 9 ( 2014-09), p. 1984-1992
Abstract:
To examine the micronutrient status of disadvantaged pre-schoolers from Northeast Brazil, following the introduction of pro-poor policies, by assessing the prevalence of anaemia and micronutrient deficiencies and the role of sociodemographic factors, genetic Hb disorders and parasitic infections. Design In a cross-sectional study, data on sociodemographic status, health, growth, genetic Hb disorders, parasites and nutrient supply from day-care meals were obtained. Fasting blood samples were collected and analysed for Hb, serum ferritin, transferrin receptor, folate, vitamin B 12 , retinol, Zn and Se. Setting Seven philanthropic day-care centres serving urban slums in Salvador, Northeast Brazil. Subjects Pre-schoolers aged 3–6 years from disadvantaged households. Results Of the 376 sampled children, 94 % were of black or mixed race; 33 % and 29 % had at least one genetic Hb disorder and intestinal parasite, respectively. Stunting and underweight were ≤5 %; 14 % were overweight. Day-care centres supplied micronutrient-dense meals and snacks each weekday. Less than 10 % of pre-schoolers had anaemia and micronutrient deficiencies. Predictors ( P 〈 0·05) of Hb were α 3·7 thalassaemia, Se and retinol (but not ferritin). Micronutrient predictors ( P 〈 0·05) were: elevated α 1 -glycoprotein for ferritin, Hb AS and BMI Z -score 〉 1 for transferrin receptor, Zn and elevated α 1 -glycoprotein for retinol, sex and helminths for Se, helminths for vitamin B 12 , and Giardia intestinalis infection for serum folate. Conclusions Impaired growth, anaemia and micronutrient deficiencies were uncommon among these disadvantaged pre-schoolers attending day care. A range of interventions including provision of micronutrient-dense, fortified day-care meals, deworming and vitamin A supplementation likely contributed to improved micronutrient status, suggesting expanded coverage of these programmes.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
1368-9800
,
1475-2727
DOI:
10.1017/S1368980013002310
Language:
English
Publisher:
Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Publication Date:
2014
detail.hit.zdb_id:
2016337-X
SSG:
21
Permalink