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A study of the dose response association between infant iron status and later cognitive functioning.

Investigators

  • Assoc Prof D Mangin (Richards) [Dept of Public Health & General Practice]
  • Dr C Dowson [Dept of Public Health & General Practice]
  • Dr E Wells [Dept of Public Health & General Practice]
  • Ms S Pitama [Dept of Public Health & General Practice]
  • Prof L Toop [Dept of Public Health & General Practice]
  • Dr P George [Dept of Pathology]
  • Prof D Fergusson [Dept of Psychological Medicine]
  • Prof I Town [U of Canterbury]

It is known that iron deficiency severe enough to cause anaemia of moderate severity is associated with poorer long term cognitive outcomes which may be irreversible in some instances. It is not known whether iron deficiency without anaemia has a negative effect on long term cognitive outcomes. There is uncertainty over where or how to treat iron deficiency.

This is a cohort study of 500 children. This current study is designed to assess the relationship between early iron status at 15 months and cognitive and behavioural functioning at age 6 years. This five year project is due for completion in 2008.

Publication pending.

Funded by

Health Research Council of New Zealand.

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