Prevalence of Anemia and Associated Factors among Vulnerable Populations in Ethiopia
Desalegne Kuche *
Ethiopian Health and Nutrition Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Adamu Belay
Ethiopian Health and Nutrition Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Aregash Samuel
Ethiopian Health and Nutrition Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Dilnesaw Zerfu
Ethiopian Health and Nutrition Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Aweke Kebede
Ethiopian Health and Nutrition Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Tibebu Moges
Ethiopian Health and Nutrition Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Biniyam Tesfaye
Ethiopian Health and Nutrition Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Masresha Tessema
Ethiopian Health and Nutrition Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Temesgen Awoke
Ethiopian Health and Nutrition Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Amha Kebede
Ethiopian Health and Nutrition Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Objectives: According to Ethiopia Demographic and Health Survey 2011, the prevalence of anemia among children age 6-59 months and women of reproductive age is 44.2% and 16.6% respectively. The 2014 Ethiopia National Micronutrient Survey will provide national and regional estimates of the prevalence of anemia among children 6-59 months’ old and non-pregnant women 15-49 years of age in Ethiopia.
Methods: The ENMS is a cross-sectional household survey designed to produce national and regionally representative estimates of anemia. The prevalence of anemia will be determined from hemoglobin levels in venous blood samples using a Hemocue® photometer. Anemia will be defined by a hemoglobin <11.0 and <12.0 g/dL for children 6-59 months of age and non-pregnant women, respectively. Hemoglobin values will be adjusted for altitude and smoking status.
Results: The national and regional prevalence of anemia will be presented for children 6-59 months old and non-pregnant women 15-49 years of age.
Conclusions: This survey will provide national and regional data for anemia control and fortification programs in Ethiopia.