The number of children and adolescents with iron deficiency anemia is increasing across Europe, mainly due to dietary habits.
In Albania, data shows that almost 50% of children up to the age of six have mild to moderate anemia, which is mainly attributed to iron deficiency.
It is reported that pilot studies have found that the percentage of children in early childhood – up to the start of school – who present anemia ranges between 40% and 50%, mainly in mild or moderate form. It is also noted that in the past there were more cases of severe anemia, while today adolescent girls seem to be more affected by iron deficiency.
Anemia manifests itself with symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, dizziness and difficulty breathing. The World Health Organization emphasizes that this condition negatively affects the school performance of children, as well as the productivity of adults, resulting in financial losses for families.
