PREDICTORS OF HAEMOGLOBIN CONCENTRATION AMONG SCHOOL CHILDREN IN DELTA STATE, NIGERIA: THE ROLE OF SERUM VITAMINS A, C AND E

Abstract

Anaemia remains a top nutritional concern among school-aged children worldwide, with profound consequences for physical growth, cognitive development, educational achievement, and immune function. Our study examined the relationships between haemoglobin concentration (HC) and serum vitamins A, C, and E, and identified independent predictors of HC among schoolchildren in Delta State, Nigeria. Overall, 201 school-aged children (6–17 years) participated in a cross-sectional survey in Delta State, Nigeria. The study employed a multistage sampling process to recruit participants, and data on sociodemographic characteristics and dietary habits were collected via interviewer-administered questionnaires. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated using WHO standard protocols, while serum vitamins A, C and E and HC were determined using standard laboratory methods. SPSS version 23 was used for data analysis at a 95% confidence level. Mean HC was 115.32 ± 41.15 g/L, and 38.3% of participants were anaemic. Pearson's correlation demonstrated no statistically relevant relationships between HC and serum vitamins A, C and E. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that age (β = 0.152, p = 0.040) and fruit consumption (β = –0.145, p = 0.046) independently predicted haemoglobin concentration. In contrast, other variables were not significant independent predictors. Haemoglobin concentration among schoolchildren in Delta State was influenced primarily by age and dietary practices rather than by antioxidant vitamin concentrations. Comprehensive school nutrition programmes should integrate anaemia screening with interventions promoting healthy dietary practices to improve haematological health.