Anemia Etiology Evaluation in Ethiopia

Evaluation of Dietary Iron Intake, Anemia, and Iron Status Among Men, Women, and Children in Ethiopia

The AnemEE study is a population-based anemia etiology survey in six regions of Ethiopia. The primary aim of the study is to evaluate the relative contribution of risk factors for anemia among children, women of reproductive age, and adult men. The study data are intended to inform evidence-based decision-making on anemia control interventions.

The AnemEE study is a population-based cross-sectional survey of children (6-59 months), adult women of reproductive age (15-49 years) and adult males (15-49 years) in six regions of Ethiopia (Afar, Amhara, Tigray, Oromia, Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples' Region and Addis Ababa). The study will enroll approximately 5,100 participants and will be conducted in two survey rounds; one survey round in the Belg season and one survey round in the Meher season. All participants will have hemoglobin assessed and will have standardized questionnaires administered to assess sociodemographic, diet, morbidity, and other health/nutrition factors. All participants will also have assessments of anthropometric measures, malaria, and soil transmitted helminth infection. A subset of participants will also have serum ferritin, CRP, AGP, vitamin B12, and folate concentrations assessed. The study data will be used to determine the relative contributions of risk factors for anemia.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Women of reproductive age

   • Female living in a selected household that has a woman 15-49 years of age
   • Aged 15-49 years

2. Adult Men

   • Male living in a selected household that has a woman 15-49 years of age
   • Aged 15-49 years

3. Children

   • Male or female child living in a selected household that has a woman 15-49 years of age
   • Aged 6-59 months

Exclusion Criteria:

• Does not provide informed consent