Exploring how iron deficiency anemia affects child development in young children

Study on the Association Between Iron Deficiency Anemia and Neurobehavioral Development and Cognitive Function in Children Aged 6 to 24 Months

Pingshan District Maternal & Child Healthcare Hospital of Shenzhen · NCT06662045

This study looks at how iron deficiency anemia affects the development of young children between 6 to 24 months old, focusing on their motor skills, language, and social behavior.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment1000 (estimated)
Ages6 Months to 6 Years
SexAll
SponsorPingshan District Maternal & Child Healthcare Hospital of Shenzhen (other)
Locations1 site (Shenzhen, China/Guangdong)
Trial IDNCT06662045 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the impact of iron deficiency anemia on neurobehavioral and cognitive development in children aged 6 to 24 months. Conducted in pediatric health clinics in Pingshan District, Shenzhen, China, the study will assess children through blood tests to determine anemia status and evaluate their neurodevelopment using a standardized scale. The research aims to understand how anemia influences motor skills, language ability, social behavior, and overall growth metrics such as weight and height.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 6 to 24 months diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia or confirmed non-anemic status.

Not a fit: Patients with congenital or chronic illnesses affecting neurodevelopment, or those with recent severe infections or trauma, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into the importance of addressing iron deficiency anemia to improve developmental outcomes in young children.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown a correlation between iron deficiency and developmental delays, suggesting that this approach is supported by existing research.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Children aged 6 to 24 months at the time of enrollment
* Diagnosed with iron-deficiency anemia (for the exposure group) or confirmed
* non-anemic status (for the control group) based on blood test results
* Resident in the study area for at least 6 months prior to enrollment
* Availability of parental or guardian consent to participate in the study and willingness to follow study protocols
* Completion of all baseline assessments, including neurodevelopmental and physical growth evaluations

Exclusion Criteria:

* Presence of congenital or chronic illnesses that could affect
* neurodevelopment, such as Down syndrome or cerebral palsy.
* History of severe infections or trauma within 3 months prior to enrollment that
* could influence neurodevelopmental outcomes
* Current use of medications or treatments that may interfere with iron metabolism (e.g., iron supplementation or blood transfusions in the last 6 months)
* Premature birth (before 37 weeks of gestation) or low birth weight (\< 2,500 grams)
* Parental refusal to provide consent or non-compliance with study procedures.

Where this trial is running

Shenzhen, China/Guangdong

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Iron-Deficiency Anemia, Neurobehavioral Manifestations, Growth Disorders, Nutritional Status

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.