Association between low hemoglobin level and acute lower respiratory tract infections in children aged between 6 months and 5 years – A comparative study

Background: Anemia is a significant risk factor for acute lower respiratory tract infections (ALRTIs) in children under 5 years old. Children with ALRTI have lower mean hemoglobin (Hb) levels, leading to bronchiolitis and bronchopneumonia. Early detection and treatment, along with preventive measures such as iron intake and deworming, can mitigate this risk. Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study is to determine whether anemia is an independent risk factor associated with ALRTIs among children aged 6 months–5 years. Materials and Methods: This is a case–control study that included 93 cases with confirmed respiratory tract infections and 93 controls without respiratory conditions, totaling 186 participants. Statistical analysis was performed by the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 24. Significance levels were denoted as P≤0.05. Results: The study investigated the link between low Hb levels and ALRTI in children aged 6 months–5 years. Results showed no gender difference but lower weight and Hb levels in the case group. Hematological and biochemical markers showed significant differences between the two groups. Chest X-ray findings revealed a range of abnormalities in the case group. Conclusion: This study concludes that anemia is a risk factor for infections, particularly acute ALRTIs, in children under the age of 5 years.