Abstract:

Background: It is estimated that about 11% of babies are born prematurely in Tanzania Prematurely in Tanzania. Premature infants are prone to get iron deficient anemia, and evidences have elaborated the benefits of supplementing these babies with iron. Iron is an essential micronutrient that plays a critical role in many cellular functions and processes, including growth and development. As such, having an adequate supply of iron, along with other micronutrients, is thought to be particularly important for infants. Low birth weight infants, including premature infants, are especially susceptible to developing (IDA) because these infants have smaller iron stores at birth.

Aim of the study: This study aimed at determining the prevalence and factors influencing iron supplementation among premature babies in Mwanza, specific those who attended at Makonngoro Health Centre. The result obtained are helpful in proper managements of preterm infants so as to improve their body iron levels for better growth and development.

Methods: This was a prospective cross section study which was conducted at Makongoro Health Centre. Babies aged 2 to 52 weeks were included in the study.

Results and Conclusion: Total of 230 preterm delivered infants were enrolled in the study. Males were 107 (46.5%) and females were 123 (53.5%). Almost all infants (98.3%) was taken care by their mothers. The prevalence of iron supplementation among premature babies was (11.3%). And factors associated with iron supplementation is significantly associated with good economic status, high education level, and those who attended regular monthly clinic apart from RCH visits.

Recommendations: Early iron supplementation program should be adhered to and a close follow-up of these vulnerable children be done to ensure that their iron and hemoglobin levels are normal.