Family Medicine & Medical Science Research
Open Access

Abstract

The Role of Multiple Micronutrients in Treatment of Iron Deficient Anemic Children

Hassan Ali Abdelwahid and Osama A Zekry

Background: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is more likely to be associated with other multiple micronutrient (MMN) deficiencies.

Aim: Assessment of changes in hemoglobin levels, serum ferritin, retinol, and iron that would come out as a result of the intervention.

Methods: This randomized controlled trial included 90 school children with IDA who were randomly allocated into 3 treatment groups. Group-A and B received oral iron, and oral iron + multiple micronutrients (MMN), respectively, for three months. Group-C (the control group) received nothing.

Results: Hemoglobin levels were increased significantly in group-A (11.8 g/L), and group B (15.4 g/L) and insignificantly in the control group (2.1 g/L). Group-B had the highest increase in hemoglobin levels. Conclusion: Supplementation with multiple micronutrients, rather than just iron, is a rational treatment strategy for IDA children.