Which statement describes iron deficiency anemia treatment?

• A. Encourage iron-rich foods
• B. Increase milk intake
• C. Supplements (Fe, folic acid, ferrous sulfate 3-6 mg/kg/day) with vitamin C to increase absorption
• D. Blood transfusions only

Answer: (C)

Iron deficiency anemia is treated by replenishing iron stores through oral iron therapy. The most effective approach in children is giving elemental iron at about 3–6 mg/kg per day, typically divided and taken with vitamin C to boost absorption. Vitamin C helps convert iron to the ferrous form, which is more readily absorbed in the gut, enhancing the effectiveness of the supplement. Folic acid may be added if there’s concern for concurrent folate deficiency or increased production needs, but the essential element is iron with vitamin C. Dietary improvements with iron-rich foods support treatment, but they usually aren’t enough on their own to correct established deficiency. Increasing milk intake isn’t helpful for treating iron deficiency and can even hinder absorption if it displaces iron-containing foods. Blood transfusions are reserved for severe or rapidly worsening cases or when iron therapy isn’t feasible, not as a routine first-line approach. Monitoring Hb response after a few weeks and continuing iron therapy for several months after normalization helps replenish iron stores and prevent recurrence.