Current prevalence and determinants of anaemia in under-five children in rural Bangladesh: a cross sectional study

Background: Anaemia and its association with low physical and cognitive development in under-five children remain a common public health burden in developing countries including Bangladesh. Childhood anemia is significantly associated with age, rural residence, infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices, infectious disease, maternal illiteracy etc. We have studied to identify the current prevalence and to explore associated socio-demographic, health, and nutritional factors of anaemia in under-five children of rural Bangladesh. Methods and Materials: A cross-sectional study was conducted at five remote northern districts of Bangladesh involving rural children aged 6 - 24-36 months and 44.3% in >36-<60 months categories. The following explanatory variables showed statistically significant association with high anaemia: younger-age (p=<0.001), low family income, and maternal education (p=<0.001), exclusive versus non-exclusive breastfeeding (p=0.02), and timely versus delayed or early weaning (p=<0.001). Non-consumption of animal proteins, fruits and green leafy vegetables were also significantly linked to high anaemia prevalence (p=0.001). Further, underweight, stunting, and wasting were significantly related to anaemia (p=0.02, 0.006, and 0.001 respectively). Conclusion: The prevalence of anaemia in under-five children of rural Bangladesh remains noticeably high. Age, maternal education, family income, consumption of animal protein, green leafy vegetables, and fruits along with underweight, stunting and wasting are inversely related to anaemia prevalence. Exclusive breastfeeding and timely weaning may reduce the risk of anaemia.