Resumo

SGUASSERO, Yanina; GUERRERO, Marcia M  e  ROMERO, Mariana. The perspective of primary health care pediatricians regarding childhood anemia and iron supplementation. Arch. argent. pediatr. [online]. 2018, vol.116, n.1, pp.21-27. ISSN 0325-0075.  http://dx.doi.org/10.5546/aap.2018.21.

Introduction. Iron deficiency anemia is common in low- and middle-income countries. According to the evidence, the impact of ferrous sulfate supplementation in the pediatric population is low. Our objective was to analyze the perspective of pediatricians regarding anemia and iron supplementation. Population and methods. Qualitative, exploratory study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with primary health care pediatricians from Rosario. Three core inquiry concepts were included: importance of this problem, clinical practice, and representations about iron supplementation. The analysis consisted in the systematization of the information collected by transcribing the recorded interviews and notes. Results. A total of 32 interviews were conducted. All interviewees considered anemia was a relevant problem. At present, anemia is associated with a poor-quality diet. Based on the findings, pediatric practice follows national standards. There is consensus that low adherence is a barrier for the clinical management of iron deficiency anemia. Pediatricians described concepts that are potentially beneficial for the local setting, including workshops on anemia and free provision of more flavorful iron supplements. Conclusions. Iron deficiency anemia was considered a severe problem. In the primary health care setting, outstanding interventions included workshops and access to more flavorful iron supplements.

Palavras-chave : Iron deficiency anemia; Interview; Primary health care; Pediatrics; Qualitative analysis.

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