Project Number: WVA00414
CRIS Number: 0185215
Factors Associated with Iron Status Among WIC Infants in Rural West Virginia
Investigators: Fitch, C. W.
Performing Department: Family and Consumer Sciences -- 3151
Start Date: 06/01/2000
Termination Date: 12/31/2002
Reporting period: 01/01/2001 to 12/31/2001
Progress Report:
This study is a cross-sectional analysis that will describe the iron status, blood lead level, health status, growth parameters, and nutrient intake of a group of infants who are participating in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) in rural West Virginia. The central hypothesis of this study is that dietary patterns and nutrient intake affect iron status, which, in turn, affects health and development during the first two years of life. Data collection began in July of 2001 and will continue through July of 2002. Data being collected include growth parameters, iron studies, blood lead levels, a health history, and nutrient intake. Fifty-three infants between the ages of 6 months and 2 years from 6 rural counties have been enrolled in the study. Thus far, data have not shown iron deficiency to be a significant problem in this population. Blood lead levels were available for 34 infants. All but 2 had measurable amounts of lead in their blood. The mean blood lead level for the group was 2.9 mcg/dl, slightly higher than the mean of 2.0 mcg/dl (based on data collected in 1999) for US children aged 1 to 5 years. None of the children had elevated blood lead levels (defined as greater than 9.0 mcg/dl), but there is evidence that lower blood lead levels may have subtle effects on development. Although lead poisoning has long been recognized as a problem among urban infants from low-income families, these findings indicate that rural infants are also exposed to lead. Parents of infants and toddlers in rural areas must be educated on ways to prevent lead poisoning.
Publications: (No publications.)
Impact:
By providing insight into associations among dietary factors, iron status, blood lead levels, and health status, this project can serve as a basis for appropriate community outreach and education programs that will help to prevent the adverse effects of poor iron status and elevated blood lead levels.