Mapping of anemia prevalence among Honduran children ages 6–60 months using global positioning system data

Abstract

Based on national data, 1/3rd of all Honduran children under age 5 suffer from anemia. No studies to date have mapped the prevalence of anemia within rural Honduras. Objectives were to 1) determine and map the prevalence of anemia within children ages 6 to 60 months and 2) determine socioeconomic, growth, nutrition, and health factors associated with anemia. Randomized household surveys were conducted in collaboration with the Honduran Ministry of Health. Hemoglobin was obtained from 851 children living within 16 health centers. Altitude, latitude, and longitude were obtained at each household using a handheld global positioning system. Anemia was defined as hemoglobin < 11.0 g/dL (altitude adjusted). Overall prevalence of anemia was 29.8%. Anemia prevalence in one health center was <20%, 20–30% in 7 health centers, 31–40% in 6 health centers, and 40–50% in 2 health centers. Mapping data shows the prevalence of anemia in each health center. Risk factors associated with anemia included living at elevations >5,000 feet, (p=.012), mother was anemic (p=.005), weight‐for‐age z‐scores < −2 (p=.049), clinic distance > 1hour from home (p=.004), consumed meat < 2 times per month (p=.029), > 7 people living in household (p=.019), house constructed from material other than brick (p=.030), mother attended school < 3 years (p=.015), and child breastfed > 24 months (p=.000). By targeting health centers at highest risk for anemia, the Honduran Ministry of Heath can use this data to implement prevention measures as a means of reducing childhood morbidity. Supported by Henry M. Jackson Foundation for Advancement of Military Medicine.