Prevalence and Determinants of Anaemia among Children Aged 6–59 Months in an Urban Area of Western Uttar Pradesh: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Anaemia remains a major public health problem among under-five children. In India, 67.1% of children aged 6–59 months are anaemic as per NFHS-5. This study estimated the prevalence of anaemia and its associated socio-demographic, nutritional, and maternal factors among children aged 6–59 months in an urban area of Western Uttar Pradesh. Materials & Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the urban field practice area of UHTC, Department of Community Medicine, LLRM Medical College, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, from October 2024 to September 2025. A total of 200 children aged 6–59 months were selected using multistage random sampling. Data were obtained using a pretested questionnaire. Haemoglobin estimation was done using a digital haemoglobinometer, and anaemia was classified according to WHO criteria. Data were analysed using Epi Info version 7.2.5. The chi-square test was applied, and p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The prevalence of anaemia was 54.0%. Among anaemic children, 62.0% had moderate and 38.0% had mild anaemia. Higher prevalence was observed among children aged 24–35 months. Significant associations were found with inappropriate complementary feeding (p=0.017) and maternal iron–folic acid consumption during pregnancy (p=0.018). No significant association was observed with gender, socioeconomic status, or exclusive breastfeeding. Conclusions: Anaemia remains highly prevalent among under-five children. Strengthening complementary feeding practices and maternal iron supplementation is essential to reduce childhood anaemia.