Anemia among Syrian refugee children aged 6 to 23 months living in Greater Beirut, Lebanon, including the Voices of Mothers’ and Local Healthcare Staff: A mixed-methods study

Abstract

Globally, the prevalence of anemia among children during the period of complementary feeding is high. A cross-sectional, mixed-methods study was conducted to examine the main determinants of anemia among Syrian refugee children aged 6 to 23 months (n = 215) and to illuminate the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of their mothers and Lebanese healthcare staff on its causes and available treatment options. 42% of the children and 20% of their mothers were anemic. Determinants of child anemia were the mother having anemia or not knowing that fish/seafood is a source of iron; the child having been acutely ill the last two weeks or receiving cow’s milk, but not consuming iron-rich infant formula, added fats/oils, or fruits in the previous 24 hours. Several Syrian mothers knew some causes of anemia and named dizziness as a leading symptom but did not mention flesh foods as a key source of heme iron. They reported financial constraints in accessing iron-rich foods and supplements. Lebanese doctors largely gave appropriate dietary advice and prescribed iron supplements as treatment. Multisectoral interventions are needed that combine medical and financial support with nutrition counseling for mothers to reduce the high burden of anemia among young children living in a multiple crises situation.