Abstract

The World Health Organization estimates that globally, 1.62 billion people are anemic, with
the highest prevalence of anemia (47.4%) among preschool-aged children. A study was
conducted at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital (KIU TH) Bushenyi district
in western Uganda to assess the prevalence and factors associated with anemia among
children under five years. The study found that 44% of children had an 11 g/dl Hb level or
less, with 54.0% being housewives and 22.7% being civil servants. The majority of children
with low HB levels were of MUAC between 12.5-13.5 cm. The study also found that male
gender, milk consumption, and a history of chronic diseases were associated with
increased anemia. Child factors included malaria infection, male gender, feeding on cow
milk before age 6 months, and a history of chronic diseases. Exclusive breastfeeding was
not associated with increased anemia. The study highlights the importance of addressing
anemia in children under five years.