Abstract

Iron is an essential element for the human organism. Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is one of the most important health problems in Turkey. Iron deficiency (ID) is more frequently seen that IDA. In developed countries, although the incidence of iron deficiency-related anemia has declined significantly, the condition still remains a health issue. Because, as with IDA, iron deficiency can lead to growth retardation in children, this is regarded as a major public health problem. Cognitive, emotional, motor and behavioral test results in children with the condition are adversely affected. Many studies have been carried out to learn the causes and mechanisms of the condition and to ascertain whether the effects are reversible. The condition causes a permanent decline of intelligence In untreated children or whenever treatment is delayed. For this reason, an iron-rich diet is important in all stages of life and it is particularly important for mothers to supplement their iron intake during pregnancy to ensure that the newborn starts off life with a rich store of iron. Developmental retardation is not completely curable with iron therapy. At the same time, if iron deficiency can be treated with iron supplements before it becomes a chronic and serious condition, motor, cognitive and emotional disorders may be prevented. This article reviews the emotional, motor and cognitive effects of iron deficiency in children as well as the impact of iron on neuronal functions.

Key words: Iron Deficiency, Cognitive Functions, Children, Motor Development

Article Language: Turkish English