Anaemia in early childhood among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children of Far North Queensland: a retrospective cohort study.

Aust N Z J Public Health

Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Queensland.

Published: August 2019

AI Article Synopsis

  • This study highlights the prevalence of early childhood anaemia among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in Far North Queensland, finding that over 61% experienced anaemia between six and 23 months.
  • Analysis showed differences in anaemia incidence based on gender and maternal background, with higher rates linked to factors like maternal health and birthing method.
  • The research suggests that addressing nutrition and infections is crucial for reducing anaemia rates, calling for targeted public health initiatives in affected communities.

Article Abstract

Objective: Early childhood anaemia affects health and neurodevelopment. This study describes anaemia among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children of Far North Queensland.

Methods: This retrospective cohort study used health information for children born between 2006 and 2010 and their mothers. We describe the incidence of early childhood anaemia and compare characteristics of children and mothers where the child had anaemia with characteristics of children and mothers where the child did not have anaemia using bivariate and multivariable analysis, by complete case (CC) and with multiple imputed (MI) data.

Results: Among these (n=708) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children of Far North Queensland, 61.3% (95%CI 57.7%, 64.9%) became anaemic between the ages of six and 23 months. Multivariable analysis showed a lower incidence of anaemia among girls (CC/MI p<0.001) and among children of Torres Strait Islander mothers or both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mothers (CC/MI p<0.001) compared to children of Aboriginal mothers. A higher incidence of anaemia was seen among children of mothers with parity three or more (CC/MI p<0.001); children born by caesarean section (CC/MI p<0.001); and children with rapid early growth (CC/MI p<0.001).

Conclusion: Early childhood anaemia is common among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children of Far North Queensland. Poor nutrition, particularly iron deficiency, and frequent infections are likely causes. Implications for public health: Prevention of early childhood anaemia in 'Close the Gap' initiatives would benefit the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children of Far North Queensland - and elsewhere in northern Australia.

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Source
http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/1753-6405.12911DOI Listing

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