Prevalence of anemia and associated risk factors among late preterm infants, aged 6 to 12 months at Thammasat University Hospital

Sarayutt Leelapeerapong; Pacharapan Surapolchai; Phakatip Sinlapamongkolkul; Wallee Satayasai; Tasama Pusongchai

doi:10.69898/jhtm.36.2026.284432

Authors

Sarayutt Leelapeerapong Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Thammasat University
Pacharapan Surapolchai Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Thammasat University
Phakatip Sinlapamongkolkul Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Thammasat University
Wallee Satayasai Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Thammasat University
Tasama Pusongchai Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Thammasat University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.69898/jhtm.36.2026.284432

Keywords:

anemia, iron deficiency anemia, late preterm, risk factors, iron supplementation

Abstract

Objective: The study aimed to determine the prevalence of anemia and associated risk factors among late preterm infants aged 6-12 months at Thammasat University Hospital. Materials and methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted of infants born between October 2016 and October 2020. A total of 127 late preterm infants with complete blood count results at 6-12 months were included. Maternal and infant factors were analyzed using logistic regression to identify associations with anemia. Results: The prevalence of anemia was 22.83%, with 55.17% mild, 41.38% moderate and 3.45% severe cases. Iron deficiency was observed in 42.39% and iron deficiency anemia in 14.13% of those with available ferritin data. A significant risk factor for anemia was primi- gravidity (adjusted OR = 3.25, 95%CI: 1.18-8.89, p = 0.022), while higher maternal hematocrit was a protective factor (adjusted OR = 0.83, 95%CI: 0.72-0.95, p = 0.007). Iron supplementation was also protective (adjusted OR = 0.26, 95%CI: 0.09-0.66, p = 0.005). No significant difference was found between low-dose (< 3 mg/kg/day) and therapeutic-dose (3-6 mg/kg/day) supplementation. Conclusion: Anemia is prevalent among late preterm infants. Primigravidity increases the risk, whereas higher maternal hematocrit and infant iron supplementation are protective. These findings highlight the importance of optimizing maternal hematologic status and ensuring adequate iron supplementation in late preterm infants.

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