Magnitude, socio-economic and dietary intake predictors of micronutrient deficiencies among school-aged children in rural South Africa, a community-based cross-sectional study

Multiple micronutrient deficiencies are detrimental for children’s health and this study determined the prevalence and predictors of micronutrient deficiencies among children in rural Eastern Cape, South Africa. This was a cross-sectional community-based study of 237 school-aged children (6-18 years) from five purposively selected rural schools. Measurements included: socio-economic characteristics, (parents/guardians) dietary intake (24-hour recalls evaluated using the Estimated Average Requirements [EAR] or Adequate Intakes [AI]) and dietary diversity (validated nine [9] food groups Dietary Diversity Questionnaire [DDQ]) of children. Biochemical markers of micronutrient deficiencies (serum iron, zinc, vitamins A, B12 and folate) were measured using standard protocols. Data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23. High DDS (8 groups) was reported, however, 83.3% of children had inadequate dietary iron intakes; with variations (p<0.001) across the