Spatial Distribution and factors associated with childhood anemia in Ethiopia

Abstract Introduction The magnitude of childhood anemia has increased from 44% in 2011 to 56% in 2016. Thus, even if the Ethiopian government tried remarkable solutions, anemia among under-five children still continues as a serious health issue. So, exploring spatial distribution and identifying factors associated with childhood anemia helps to design appropriate strategies for control and prevention.Methods For this study data from the recent 2016 Ethiopian Demographic Health Survey were employed. The sample size was 8602 children aged 6–59 months. They were selected by stratified two-stage cluster sampling techniques. Sat Scan version 9.4 was also used to identify childhood anemia by geographic clusters and ArcGIS version10.1 was used to show anemia cases through Regions of Ethiopia. Thus to declare factors that are statistically related with anemia among under-five children a Mixed effect logistic regression model was utilized.Result This study showed there is spatial clustering of childhood anemia throughout Ethiopia (Moran’s I: 0.65, p<0.001). Statistically significant clusters were detected in Somali, Afar, Harari and southern part of Oromia regions (P<0.001). Age of child, wealth index, mother’s current working status, maternal anemic status, number of living children in the family, history of fever, and stunting were significant factors associated with anemia among under-five children.Conclusion In the country childhood anemia showed spatial clustering. Regions high risk of childhood anemia should be emphasized by allocating additional resources and providing appropriate interventions which have public health implications.