Innovation in the treatment of anemia as a modifiable risk factor for cognitive and physical deterioration in adolescents from vulnerable schools

Manrique-Sam C.; Montánchez-Carazas E.; Zegarra-Adanaqué A.; Apaza-Tosocahua-de-palma S.L. · European Public and Social Innovation Review (2026) · DOI: 10.31637/epsir-2026-2482

Resumen

Introduction: Anemia in adolescents in Latin America is a critical issue, exacerbated by altitude, poverty, and normative barriers. This study examines prevalence rates among adolescents in vulnerable zones across three measurement approaches and assesses the effects of the 2017 and 2024 regulations. Methodology: A quantitative and descriptive design was employed to compare the prevalence of anemia in 804 schoolchildren aged 2 to 14 years in Sachaca, using three measurement approaches (without correction and with the 2017 and 2024 standards) through hemoglobin concentration. Results: The prevalence of anemia was 7.6% without correction, 31.1% with the 2017 standard, and 40.4% with the 2024 standard, highlighting underdiagnosis without adjustment and greater diagnostic sensitivity with the 2024 standard. This emphasizes the need to adjust normative criteria in high-altitude areas. Discussion: The study shows a significant increase in prevalence with the 2024 standard, especially in children aged 5 to 11 years, but does not address the impact on social and institutional perception. Conclusions: Altitude corrections are key to evaluating anemia in high-altitude areas, and the 2024 standard improves detection, underscoring the need to update normative criteria.

Instituciones: Universidad Católica de Santa María