A NEW systematic review and meta-analysis confirms a significant link between household food insecurity and increased anemia risk in children and adolescents, underscoring critical implications for pediatric care and public health policy.
Analyzing data from 25 observational studies encompassing over 87,000 individuals, researchers found that children in food-insecure households face a notably higher risk of anemia. Specifically, children under age 5 had 32% higher odds of developing anemia compared to those in food-secure households (OR = 1.32; 95% CI: 1.13, 1.53). The risk was even greater for those aged 6 to 18, with a 67% higher likelihood (OR = 1.67; 95% CI: 1.16, 1.83).
Food insecurity, characterized by inadequate access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food, has long been suspected to contribute to iron-deficiency anemia, especially during periods of rapid growth and development. However, prior findings have been inconsistent. This study provides clearer evidence by synthesizing research from multiple global regions and prioritizing studies that used validated tools such as the Household Food Security Survey Module (HFSSM).
Subgroup analysis further revealed that both the severity of food insecurity and the geographic context influenced the strength of the association. The findings suggest that broader socioeconomic and regional disparities may amplify health risks tied to nutritional deficiencies.
Given anemia’s well-documented consequences, including impaired cognitive development, reduced academic performance, and increased morbidity, these results highlight the urgent need for pediatricians and healthcare systems to consider food insecurity as a clinical risk factor. Screening for food insecurity during routine visits and connecting families to nutrition assistance programs could serve as actionable interventions.
The study also calls for future research into child-specific measures of food insecurity and their unique influence on anemia, to better inform targeted, evidence-based solutions.
Reference:
Moosavian SP et al. Association of food insecurity with anemia in children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies. J Health Popul Nutr. 2025;44(1):193.
