Causes of Anemia in Children

Who is at risk for anemia?

There are many possible causes of anemia in children.

Infection. Children may be temporarily anemic if they become ill with a virus or chronic inflammation. The virus slows the body's ability to produce hemoglobin.

Chronic anemia. Inherited conditions that affect the production of healthy red blood cells can result in chronic anemia, such as thalassemia or sickle cell anemia.

Lack of nutrients. In order to make enough healthy red blood cells, the body needs sufficient intake of iron, B-12, and folic acid. Children may be at risk for iron deficiency anemia at certain stages of life.

Early Infancy (0-6 months)
Up to six months of age, most infants have enough stored iron to meet their needs. An exception is premature babies who should receive iron supplements or iron-fortified formula.

Late Infancy and toddler (6-24 months)
After age 6 months, infants need a good dietary supply of iron since the stored iron that they were born with is mainly depleted. Unfortunately, neither breast milk or cow's milk is a good source of iron.

Adolescents - Teens undergoing a growth spurt and teenaged girls who have started to menstruate are at risk for iron deficiency.