EDUCATIONAL INTERVENTION PROPOSAL IN THE DIETARY AND NUTRITIONAL FIELD IN CHILDREN UNDER FIVE YEARS OLD WITH ANEMIA FROM CANTÓN LA LIBERTAD

Abstract

DOI: https://doi.org/10.46296/gt.v8i16.0266

Abstract

Iron deficiency anemia is a major public health issue, particularly among children under five years of age, where its effects can compromise physical and cognitive development. This study was conducted in La Libertad, Ecuador, with the aim of characterizing the socioeconomic, cultural, and dietary factors associated with anemia in the pediatric population treated at the Venus de Valdivia Health Center, Type C. An observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional methodology was applied to a sample of 161 children under five years old, assessed through anthropometric and biochemical indicators, as well as questionnaires on dietary practices. The results revealed an alarming anemia prevalence of 98%, with most cases classified as mild or moderate. Although most mothers had completed secondary or higher education, a gap was identified between nutritional knowledge and actual practices. The children’s diets showed a high intake of coffee and a low frequency of iron-rich foods such as organ meats. The analysis concludes that inadequate dietary habits, rather than socioeconomic or educational factors, are key determinants in the persistence of anemia. Therefore, continuous educational and nutritional awareness interventions aimed at families are proposed as a priority strategy to reduce the prevalence of anemia in this vulnerable population.

Keywords: anemia, child nutrition, diet, educational intervention, public health.