Estimation of iron deficiency anemia in Iranian children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a major health issue in those aged less than 18 years old with high impact on their development. There are several reports from Iran with variable results. Systematic review and met analysis of these data would reveal a more realistic view of the prevalence of iron deficiency (ID). METHODS: We conducted a systematic search of national and international databases from December 1990 to 31 January 2016 for population-based studies providing estimates on the prevalence of IDA in Iran. From the extracted crude prevalence rates, the heterogenic index of the studies was determined using the Cochran's test (Q) and I2. Then, based on the heterogenetic results, a random effects model for estimate pooled prevalence of IDA was used. Meta-regression was applied to determine heterogeneity suspected factors. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of IDA in Iranian population with age less than 18 years was estimated to be 13.9% (95% CI: 10.8-17.1) and the overall prevalence of ID was 26.9% (95% CI: 19.7-34.1). The prevalence of IDA was 7.9% (95% CI: 4.1-11.7) in males and 8.5% (95% CI: 6.1-10.8) among females aged under than 18 years. DISCUSSION: Despite the efforts of ministry of health and medical education of Iran in implementing free iron supplements for infants and for girls, the prevalence of ID and resultant anemia is considerable. Further interventions to increase use of supplements when they are provided and special programs for non-covered groups including boys under six are in great need.

Predictors of Self-care among the Elderly with Diabetes Type 2: Using Social Cognitive Theory.

INTRODUCTION: Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases among the elderly and is also a very serious health problem. Adopting theory-based self-care behaviors is an effective means in managing such diseases. This study aimed to determine the predictors of diabetes self-care in the elderly in Kerman based on a social cognitive theory. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 384 elderly diabetic patients who had referred to health screening centers in Kerman were chosen via cluster sampling. To collect information about self-care and its predictors, Toobert Glasgow's diabetes self-efficacy scale as well as a questionnaire was used which was based on social cognitive theory constructs. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire was confirmed. The data were analyzed using Pearson correlation and linear regression analysis in SPSS software 17. FINDINGS: Among the subjects, 67.37% (252) had poor self-care ability; 29.14% (109) had average ability, and 3.40% (13) enjoyed a proper level of self- care ability. There was a significant relationship between the constructs of the social cognitive theory (knowledge, self- efficacy, social support, outcome expectations, outcome expectancy and self-regulation) and the self-care score. Furthermore, the mentioned constructs could predict 0.47% of the variance of the self-care behaviors. CONCLUSION: self-care behaviors in this study were poor. Therefore, it is necessary to develop an educational intervention based on cognitive theory constructs with the goal of properly managing diabetes in the elderly patients.