While severe anemia is a direct cause of death in children, it is also recognized that mild and moderate anemia may also contribute to mortality risk. This meta-analysis provides estimates on the relationship between mortality and hemoglobin (Hb) levels in children with mild or moderate anemia. Results indicated that for each 1-g/dL increase in Hb, the risk of death is reduced by 24 percent. The authors concluded that ~1.8 million child deaths could be avoided each year by increasing Hb by 1 g/dL.
Nutrients. 2014