Wellcome Open Research · 4 authors, 5 centres
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This narrative review evaluates evidence on whether universal iron supplementation for children in malaria-endemic areas is safe and effective. It concludes that the benefits likely outweigh the risks when accompanied by malaria prevention, but notes challenges in low-resource settings.
This narrative review synthesizes evidence on universal iron supplementation strategies for young children in malaria-endemic regions. The review explores evidence from human studies, concluding that supplementation is generally safe when paired with malaria prevention measures. However, in low-resource settings with inadequate malaria control, some evidence suggests an increased risk of malaria and gram-negative bacterial infections. Limitations include the lack of accurate iron status markers unbiased by infection. The review suggests policy adjustments, such as timing supplementation to the end of the wet season, and calls for attention to the dual burden of malnutrition and obesity in changing populations.
