Abstract

Objectives: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a major health issue in those aged less than 18 years old with high impact on their development. There are several reports from Iran with variable results. Systematic review and met analysis of these data would reveal a more realistic view of the prevalence of iron deficiency (ID). Methods: We conducted a systematic search of national and international databases from December 1990 to 31 January 2016 for population-based studies providing estimates on the prevalence of IDA in Iran. From the extracted crude prevalence rates, the heterogenic index of the studies was determined using the Cochran's test (Q) and I-2. Then, based on the heterogenetic results, a random effects model for estimate pooled prevalence of IDA was used. Meta-regression was applied to determine heterogeneity suspected factors. Results: The overall prevalence of IDA in Iranian population with age less than 18 years was estimated to be 13.9 (95 CI: 10.8-17.1) and the overall prevalence of ID was 26.9 (95 CI: 19.7-34.1). The prevalence of IDA was 7.9 (95 CI: 4.1-11.7) in males and 8.5 (95 CI: 6.1-10.8) among females aged under than 18 years. Discussion: Despite the efforts of ministry of health and medical education of Iran in implementing free iron supplements for infants and for girls, the prevalence of ID and resultant anemia is considerable. Further interventions to increase use of supplements when they are provided and special programs for non-covered groups including boys under six are in great need.