Anemia in Cambodia: Prevalence, Etiology and Research Needs

Type Journal Article - Asia Pacific journal of clinical nutrition
Title Anemia in Cambodia: Prevalence, Etiology and Research Needs
Author(s)
Volume 21
Issue 2
Publication (Day/Month/Year) 2012
Page numbers 171-181
URL http://apjcn.nhri.org.tw/server/APJCN/21/2/171.pdf
Abstract
Anemia is a severe global public health problem with serious consequences for both the human and socioeconomic health. This paper presents a situation analysis of the burden of anemia in Cambodia, including a discussion of the country-specific etiologies and future research needs. All available literature on the prevalence andetiology of anemia in Cambodia was collected using standard search protocols. Prevalence data was readily identified for pre-school aged children and women of reproductive age, but there is a dearth of information for schoolaged children, men and the elderly. Despite progress in nation-wide programming over the past decade, anemia remains a significant public health problem in Cambodia, especially for women and children. Anemia is a multifaceted disease and both nutritional and non-nutritional etiologies were identified, with iron deficiency accounting for the majority of the burden of disease. The current study highlights the need for a national nutrition survey, including collection of data on the iron status and prevalence of anemia in all population groups. It is impossible to develop effective intervention programs without a clear picture of the burden and cause of disease in the country.

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