- Iron deficiency anemia is the most common blood disorder in children and is mainly caused by insufficient iron intake, especially during the transition from breast milk or formula to cow's milk.
- Excessive cow's milk intake inhibits iron absorption and is low in iron; limiting cow's milk to 16 ounces or less a day is recommended, with many sources advising no more than 16-24 ounces daily for toddlers and young children.
- Iron supplementation and iron-rich foods help prevent anemia: Iron-fortified cereals, pureed meats, beans, leafy greens, and vitamin C-rich foods that enhance iron absorption are important dietary components.
- Screening and timely treatment: Infants with risk factors should be screened, and iron supplements may be given to breastfed babies starting around 4 months until they are on iron-rich foods.
- Iron-deficiency anemia can affect neurodevelopment and immune function; prevention is critical especially in low-income populations, where iron fortification and supplementation have shown effectiveness.
The Most Common Blood Disorder in Children
The most common blood disorder that we see in the pediatric population is iron deficiency anemia, and this is typically a result of not taking in enough iron.
Nadine SantaCruz, MD, MPH, Pediatric Hematology and Oncology
