SCREENING OF IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA IN CHILDREN WITH FUNCTIONAL CONSTIPATION

Abstract

Background: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is considered to be one of the most prevalent nutritional disorders in children globally and plays a significant role in childhood morbidity. Poor dietary intake, changes in gut microbiota and chronic inflammation contribute to iron deficiency in children with chronic functional constipation (CFC), which is a common gastrointestinal disorder in children.

Objective: To determine frequency of IDA among children aged less than 12 years diagnosed with Chronic functional constipation.

Methodology: This is a cross sectional study, which was conducted in the Paediatris Department of  Fauji Foundation Hospital, Rawalpindi during  November 2025 and February 2026. Using non-probability consecutive sampling, 100 children aged 2–12 years with chronic functional constipation (Rome IV criteria) were recruited. Data on demographic and clinical parameters were collected using structured questionnaires. Blood samples were drawn to determine levels of hemoglobin, hematocrit, MCV, MCH and serum ferritin. SPSS 23 package software was used to analyze the data. Results:  Fe deficiency anemia (IDA) was seen in 36% and Fe deficiency (FDI) in 31% of all the children with CFC (total 100). IDA was more prevalent among children aged <5 years and with long duration of constipation. There was a significant correlation between severity of constipation and the hemoglobin level (p<0.05). Conclusion: Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA) is a very common finding in children with chronic functional constipation. Assessment of nutritional status should be performed as part of the routine management of constipated children to minimise related morbidity.