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To examine the burden of anemia and micronutrient deficiencies, and associations between micronutrient status and anemia in children (1–11 y) in Mexico.

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Survey (ENSANUT 2018) were analyzed to determine the burden of anemia and micronutrient deficiencies (iron, vitamin B₁₂, vitamin A) in a nationally-representative sample of 4,891 children 1 to 11 years of age (1 to < 5 y: 1,337; 5–11 y: 3,554). Hemoglobin (Hb) was measured via HemoCue and venous blood samples were collected, processed, and stored at < -80°C until analysis. Serum ferritin (SF), C-reactive protein (CRP) and vitamin B₁₂ concentrations were measured via immunoassays. Serum retinol was measured via HPLC. Hemoglobin was adjusted for altitude; anemia (< 5 y: Hb < 11.0 g/dL; 5–11 y: < 11.5 g/dL) and iron deficiency (ID; < 5 y: < 12.0 μg/L; 5–11 y: < 15.0 μg/L) were defined …