EVALUATING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA AND INTELLIGENCE QUOTIENT IN SCHOOL AGED CHILDREN

Abstract

Objective: The study aimed to assess the influence of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) on intelligence quotient (IQ) in school aged children in the population.

Study Design: This was a cross-sectional study

Place and Duration: This study was conducted at Pir Abdul Qadir Shah Jilani Institute of Medical Sciences Gambat from January 2025 to January 2026.

Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted in 110 children (7-11 years). Socio demographic data were obtained from a questionnaire. Venous blood samples were collected in EDTA and gel tubes. Full blood count (FBC) was done by an automated blood cell counter and serum ferritin by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA). The Raven Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM) was used to assess cognitive function. The statistical analysis was done using SPSS 26 software.

Results: Of the 110 children, 48 (43.6%) were females and 62 (56.4%) were males. The incidence of IDA was 10.9%. The mean IQ of children from nuclear families was higher (55.8 ± 35.9) than those from joint families (36.2 ± 33.8). Male children showed a slightly higher mean IQ (42.5 ± 34.7) than females (39.8 ± 36.9). In terms of nutritional status, 44 (40.0%) were of normal weight, 22 (20.0%) were obese and 44 (40.0%) were underweight. Hemoglobin and hematocrit were significantly different between children with below average IQ and average IQ. There was a significant difference in IQ scores of children with IDA and non anemic children. The average IQ, hemoglobin and ferritin levels in children with IDA were 10.4 ± 7.9 (percentile, standard deviation), 11.1 ± 0.41 g/dL and 9.2 ± 1.4 ng/mL, respectively.

Conclusion: Intelligence quotient of children in school is adversely affected by iron deficiency anemia. IQ scores of IDA children are significantly lower than that of children without anemia which calls for early diagnosis and nutritional support.