The results evolved in this analysis are contrary to the findings
from our previous published paper where both vitamin B12 and
folate status predicted Hb and anemia [11]. Although the main
predictor for anemia and Hb was iron deficiency, iron treatment for
a relatively short period did not suffice to prevent anemia after six
months. This is an indication that high doses of iron for a short
duration in anemic children may not work properly. The extent to
which treatment with other doses and different durations is more
feasible should be a prioritized research question. The dose used in
our study might, in fact, have been too high and it is possible that a
high dose of oral iron downregulates iron absorption that again
renders a child at an even a higher risk of iron deficiency once
supplementation ends. Strategies to prevent anemia should also be
identified as 60% of those who were not-anemic became so after
6 mo of observation where only the vitamin paste or placebo paste
were given and during a period when we attempted to ensure
optimal treatment for all common illnesses