Determinants of iron status and Hb in the Bangladesh population: the role of groundwater iron

Using data from the national micronutrients survey 2011-2012, the present study explored the determinants of Fe status and Hb levels in Bangladesh with a particular focus on groundwater Fe. Cross-sectional study conducted at the nationwide scale. Settings The survey was conducted in 150 clusters, fifty in each of the three strata of rural, urban and slum. Three population groups: pre-school age children (6-59 months; PSAC), school age children (6-14 years; SAC) and non-pregnant non-lactating women (15-49 years; NPNLW). National prevalence of Fe deficiency was 10·7 %, 7·1 % and 3·9-9·5 % in PSAC, NPNLW and SAC, respectively. Prevalence of anaemia was 33·1 % (PSAC), 26·0 % (NPNLW) and 17·1-19·1 % (SAC). Multivariate regression analyses showed that the area with 'predominantly high groundwater Fe' was a determinant of higher serum ferritin levels in NPNLW (standardized β=0·19; P=0·03), SAC (standardized β=0·22; P=0·01) and PSAC (standardized β=0·20; P=0·03). This area also determined higher levels of Hb in PSAC (standardized β=0·14; P=0·01). National prevalence of Fe deficiency in Bangladesh is low, contrary to the widely held assumption. High Fe level in groundwater is associated with higher Fe status (all populations) and higher Hb level (PSAC).