Anemia in HIV-Positive Children in a Tertiary Care Center in Northeast India: Prevalence and Risk Factors

Abstract

To the Editor: Anemia has shown to influence the natural history of HIV disease by accelerating the disease progression and increasing mortality in both developed and developing countries [1]. Our cross-sectional study done on 104 children enrolled in the ART center of GMCH was conducted to determine the prevalence and identify risk factors associated with anemia in HIV-positive children. The prevalence as well as severity of anemia was found to have a major predilection for rural population, and the results were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Thus, nutritional programs aimed at improving quality of life among HIV-infected children must take into account their relevance in rural settings in India [2]. Mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of 94% in our study indicates the rationale for intensifying efforts to get MTCT services to the large number of women needing it, to achieve a better control on pediatric HIV infection. The prevalence and severity of anemia was found to be significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the more advanced stages of the disease. Compared to elder age group, preschool children had a higher prevalence of anemia. Malnutrition was found to be an important risk factor of anemia, and the results were found to be significantly higher in children who were underweight (p < 0.001). Our study reaffirms that anemia is a major manifestation of HIV-infected Indian children and the results are significant. Identifying the common risk factors for anemia and devising appropriate policies can guide appropriate therapeutic interventions. Therefore, as a routine measure, healthcare providers of these children must routinely assess the nutritional status as well as hematological parameters before and after the initiation of ART. Survival in HIV-infected individuals may be improved with identifying the cause of anemia and treating it [3]. Adequate treatment with iron folic acid and supplements may also be taken as a routine measure in pediatric HIV patients [4].