Dynamics of anemia in relation to parasitic infections, micronutrient status, and growing age in south-central Côte d'Ivoire

Background. Parasitic diseases (e.g., malaria and helminthiases) exert enormous burdens on public health and social wellbeing. Moreover, parasitic infections are important causes of anemia in tropical Africa, exacerbated by lack of diversified diet, inflammatory and genetic diseases. There is a paucity of longitudinal studies monitoring the dynamics of anemia in relation to the aforementioned parameters.Methods. We designed a 14-month prospective longitudinal study in three cohorts (i.e., infants aged 6-23 months, 6-8 year-old children, and women aged 15-25 years), in the Taabo health demographic surveillance system located in south-central Cote d'Ivoire. Parasitological, hematological, and micronutrient data were obtained at repeated cross-sectional surveys, utilizing standardized, quality-controlled methods.Results. We found that young age, Plasmodium and Schistosoma infections, cellular iron deficiency, and stunting were significantly negatively associated with hemoglobin concentration. Moreover, iron status biomarkers (i.e., ferritin and soluble transferrin receptor) were significantly associated with inflammatory parameters.Conclusions. Our results call for effective prevention and control measures targeting parasitic diseases and iron deficiency. These measures might include the distribution of long-lasting insecticidal nets, intermittent preventive treatment for malaria, regular anthelmintic drug administration, and improved intake of bioavailable iron, coupled with health and nutritional education, improved hygiene, water, and sanitation