OBESITY AS A CAUSE OF MICRONUTRIENT DEFICIENCY AMONG CHILDREN

Background: The prevalence of obesity continues to increase worldwide. Obesity is associated with important complications such as coronary artery disease, hyperlipidemia, diabetes and others. On the other hand, micronutrient deficiency, especially iron deficiency, affects many children around the world.

Methods: This study examined the association between obesity and deficiency of micronutrients such as iron, calcium, and phosphorus in children aged 2-16 years. 280 obese and 280 non-obese children from 2 to 16 years of age attending the Department of Endocrinology were assessed. BMI ≥ 85% was defined as overweight and ≥ 95% as obesity. Serum iron, ferritin, TIBC, MCV, hemoglobin, hematocrit, calcium, and phosphorus levels were compared in both groups.

Place and Duration: In the Department of Endocrinology and Pediatrics, Jinnah Hospital Lahore for one-year duration from August 2019 to August 2020.

Results: The hemoglobin and hematocrit levels were significantly lower in obese children. In addition, serum iron, calcium, and phosphorus levels were significantly lower in obese children compared to their healthy counterparts. Low MCV, MCH, and MCHC were also more common among obese children.

Conclusion: The results of our study show a significant impact of healthy eating on the general health of society, as well as the prevention of obesity complications such as anemia, and calcium and phosphorus deficiency.

Key words: anemia, calcium, iron, obesity, overweight.