Abstract

Globally, anemia was estimated to affect about one-quarter of the entire population. Children below 5 years of age
have the highest estimated prevalence of anemia, with reports of 42% – 47% being affected in Africa. Despite various
interventions by the Ugandan Ministry of Health, anemia prevalence still ranges from 38 to 46% to as high as 72
percent in some regions of Uganda. This study sought to assess the prevalence and demographic characteristics of
anemia among children under five years old at Hoima Regional Referral Hospital, Hoima City (HRRH). The study
used a descriptive cross-sectional hospital-based survey at Hoima Regional Referral Hospital in which 385
caregivers were recruited into the study by convenient sampling technique. The study found that malaria was a
significant factor in the occurrence of anemia in under five children. The study also found that post-primary
education level 21(56.3%) and age of less than 30 at 192(57%) were protective factors against anemia. There was a
high anemia prevalence in under-five children in which child malaria and malnutrition were contributing factors
while a good caregiver education and being below 30 years were protective factors. There is a need for mass media
sensitization of masses on child anemia, its risk factors, and how it can be prevented, Post-natal mothers and other
caregivers should be advised on the nutritional requirements of children at different ages to prevent such anemia
complications.