Iron Deficiency Anaemia
The UK NSC policy on Iron deficiency anaemia screening in children
More Information
Anaemia is a condition that occurs when there is a reduced number of red blood cells or concentration of haemoglobin. There are several different types of anaemia, and each one has a different cause. The most common form of the condition is iron-deficiency anaemia. This is where the body lacks enough iron to keep the red blood cells functioning properly. In children, it is usually due to eating a diet that has too little iron in it.
Policy Position
Screening should not be offered.
This policy was reviewed in Jul 2006 but no significant changes were made. It is due to be considered again in 2012/13, or earlier if significant new evidence emerges.
Evidence Supporting the Policy
The evidence about the benefits of screening for iron deficiency anaemia was appraised by the Child Health Sub-Group and in its report to the UK NSC in 2003, the Sub-Group recommended that the emphasis should be on primary prevention by good nutritional advice, but did not recommend screening for this disease.
Stakeholders
The stakeholder groups will be involved when the policy is next reviewed. If you think your organisation should be added, please contact us.
Related documents
Additional knowledge update on screening for iron deficiency anaemia (October 2011) (PDF document, 33KB, 16/12/11)Knowledge update on screening for iron deficiency anaemia (January 2010) (PDF document, 110KB, 24/08/11)
