Which age range is specified for universal screening in the AAP's iron deficiency anemia recommendations?

Which age range is specified for universal screening in the AAP's iron deficiency anemia recommendations?

• A. 9-12 months
• B. 2-6 years
• C. 11-15 years
• D. At birth

Answer: (A)

Screening for iron deficiency anemia is timed to catch most infants as they transition from iron stores from birth to dietary iron intake. The window of 9–12 months is chosen because, by this age, many infants have begun solid foods and are no longer receiving iron in the same way as in the first months, while iron stores from birth may be depleting. Detecting deficiency during this period allows for timely treatment before anemia affects growth and development. Screening at birth isn’t used for iron deficiency anemia because iron status is not yet in a form that requires universal screening. Screening later in childhood (such as in older toddlers, school-aged children, or adolescence) isn’t the standard universal timing—risks are addressed through selective screening or targeted assessment in high-risk groups.

Screening for iron deficiency anemia is timed to catch most infants as they transition from iron stores from birth to dietary iron intake. The window of 9–12 months is chosen because, by this age, many infants have begun solid foods and are no longer receiving iron in the same way as in the first months, while iron stores from birth may be depleting. Detecting deficiency during this period allows for timely treatment before anemia affects growth and development.

Screening at birth isn’t used for iron deficiency anemia because iron status is not yet in a form that requires universal screening. Screening later in childhood (such as in older toddlers, school-aged children, or adolescence) isn’t the standard universal timing—risks are addressed through selective screening or targeted assessment in high-risk groups.