Relationship between hemoglobin levels in anemic children and caregivers' belief regarding adherence to ferrous sulfate

Authors

  • Herman Vildózola Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Facultad de Medicina, Unidad de Posgrado, Lima, Peru
  • Karol Jhanet Pillaca Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Facultad de Medicina, Unidad de Posgrado, Lima, Peru https://orcid.org/0009-0003-8308-9070
  • Maritza Placencia Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Facultad de Medicina, Unidad de Posgrado, Lima, Peru https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3624-3461

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15381/anales.v85i4.28978

Keywords:

Anemia, Hemoglobins, Patient Compliance, Child, Caregivers

Abstract

Introduction. Childhood anemia is a prevalent public health issue in Peru. It has been proposed that caregivers' beliefs about adherence to ferrous sulfate could influence the effectiveness of anemia management. Objective. To assess the relationship between hemoglobin levels in children under 36 months with anemia and the degree of caregivers' belief about adherence to ferrous sulfate. Methods. A descriptive, correlational, and prospective study was conducted on 67 children under 36 months with iron deficiency anemia treated at the Quinua Health Center in Ayacucho, Peru. An hemoglobinometer was used to measure hemoglobin levels, and a validated belief scale was employed to assess caregivers' adherence to ferrous sulfate. Results. No significant correlation was observed between caregivers' beliefs about adherence to ferrous sulfate and hemoglobin levels in children. Conclusions. Although no significant correlation was identified, strengthening adherence to ferrous sulphate remains crucial in the comprehensive management of childhood anemia.

Author Biographies

  • Herman Vildózola, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Facultad de Medicina, Unidad de Posgrado, Lima, Peru

    Doctor en medicina. 

  • Karol Jhanet Pillaca, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Facultad de Medicina, Unidad de Posgrado, Lima, Peru

    Magíster en atención farmacéutica y farmacia clínica. 

  • Maritza Placencia, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Facultad de Medicina, Unidad de Posgrado, Lima, Peru

    Doctora en farmacia.

Downloads

Published

2024-12-31

Issue

Section

Artículo Original

How to Cite

1.
Vildózola H, Pillaca KJ, Placencia M. Relationship between hemoglobin levels in anemic children and caregivers’ belief regarding adherence to ferrous sulfate. An Fac med [Internet]. 2024 Dec. 31 [cited 2025 Jun. 19];85(4):443-7. Available from: https://revistasinvestigacion.unmsm.edu.pe/index.php/anales/article/view/28978