Behavior of Infants with Iron-Deficiency Anemia |
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| Authors: | Betsy Lozoff Nancy K Klein Edward C Nelson Donna K McClish Martin Manuel Maria Elena Chacon |
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| Institution: | 1. Cleveland State University;2. Edward C. Nelson is unaffiliated;3. Medical College of Virginia;4. Case Western Reserve University;5. Hospital Nacional de Ninos, San Jose, Costa Rica. |
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| Abstract: | This study tested the hypothesis that infants with iron-deficiency anemia show behaviors, such as increased proximity to caregivers, increased wariness or hesitance, and decreased activity, that could contribute to “functional isolation.” The behavior of 52 Costa Rican 12- to 23-month-old infants with iron-deficiency anemia was contrasted with that of 139 comparison group infants with better iron status during free play and mental and motor testing and in the home. Infants with iron-deficiency anemia maintained closer contact with caregivers; showed less pleasure and delight; were more wary, hesitant, and easily tired; made fewer attempts at test items; were less attentive to instructions and demonstrations; and were less playful. Adult behavior also differed. The results indicate that iron-deficiency anemia in infancy is associated with alterations in affect and activity, suggesting that functional isolation is a useful framework for understanding poorer developmental outcome in iron-deficiency anemia, the world's most common single nutrient deficiency. |
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