Maternal Iron Deficiency and Childhood Health - a Prospective Cohort Study

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how maternal iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia, along with the use of iron supplements during pregnancy, affect the health and development of children up to seven years old. This prospective observational cohort study involves pregnant women who visit Tampere University Hospital for prenatal care or labor. The study also includes two smaller groups focusing on mothers with iron deficiency or diabetes to explore how maternal iron status relates to the child's iron levels and development. All pregnant women who agree to participate complete an online questionnaire about their anemia diagnosis, iron supplement use, chronic diseases, and any intravenous iron treatments during pregnancy. The mothers' iron status is tested before delivery, and their children's iron levels are checked at birth, a few days after birth, and again at 8 months, 2 years, and 5 years. Parents also fill out questionnaires about their child's nutrition, sleep, behavior, and development at these same ages. Participants' health records will be followed from birth until the child is seven years old to gather information on growth, diagnoses, medications, and support needs at school. Data collection began in April 2024 and will continue for about 3.5 years, with ongoing follow-up of children through outpatient records. The study aims to provide insights that could guide pregnancy care and future recommendations for diagnosing and treating iron deficiency in mothers and children.

Maternal Iron Deficiency and Childhood Health