Hemoglobin and Ferritin Levels as Indicators of Chronic Infection in Stunting Children: A Comprehensive Literature Review
Alya Nur Azizah Salsabila1, Nur Aisiyah Widjaja2*, Paulus Budiono Notopuro3
Abstract
Stunting, a condition characterized by impaired growth and development due to chronic malnutrition and recurrent infections, is a persistent public health issue in Indonesia. Iron metabolism reflected through hemoglobin and ferritin levels, plays a crucial role in immune function and susceptibility to infections. This study investigates the correlation between hemoglobin and ferritin levels with chronic infection in stunted children, with a focus on the Indonesian context, where stunting prevalence remains among the highest globally. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted on stunted children aged 2–5 years. Hemoglobin levels were measured to identify anemia, while ferritin levels were assessed as markers of iron stores and inflammation. The results revealed a significant inverse correlation between hemoglobin levels and chronic infection markers, alongside a complex relationship between ferritin and inflammation, where elevated ferritin levels were indicative of infection-driven dysregulation rather than adequate iron stores. These findings highlight the interplay between iron status and immune function, which exacerbates stunting outcomes in Indonesia. Addressing this issue requires tailored strategies that consider the dual burden of anemia and chronic inflammation, emphasizing nutritional interventions and infection management to reduce stunting prevalence in affected populations.
Keywords
stunting; hemoglobin; ferritin; chronic infection; anemia; inflammation.
Cite This Article
Salsabila, A. N. A., Widjaja, N. A., Notopuro, P. B. (2024). Hemoglobin and Ferritin Levels as Indicators of Chronic Infection in Stunting Children: A Comprehensive Literature Review. International Journal of Scientific Advances (IJSCIA), Volume 5| Issue 6: Nov-Dec 2024, Pages 1577-1586, URL: https://www.ijscia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Volume5-Issue6-Nov-Dec-No.772-1577-1586.pdf
Volume 5 | Issue 6: Nov – Dec 2024
