Impact of a Community-Based Educational Program on Childhood Anemia in a Rural Amazonian Population in Peru

Abstract

Childhood anemia remains a major public health challenge in low-resource settings, particularly in rural Amazonian regions of Peru. This study evaluated the impact of a community-based educational program known as “Compromiso 1,” implemented through home visits by trained social agents. A quasi-experimental design was used to follow a cohort of 145 six-month-old infants diagnosed with anemia in our city. Over a 6-month period, caregivers received three structured home visits that included nutritional education, iron supplementation guidance, and the use of age-appropriate visual and written materials. Hemoglobin levels were measured at 6, 7, 9, and 12 months of age to assess the effectiveness of the intervention. Statistical analyses included descriptive measures, paired t-tests, chi-square tests, and Spearman correlations. The results showed a progressive and significant increase in hemoglobin levels over time, with higher values among infants who adhered consistently to iron supplementation. Sociodemographic variables such as maternal age, education, occupation, and income level were not significantly associated with hemoglobin outcomes, although residence in rural areas was linked to slightly higher values. These findings suggest that targeted, home-based education delivered through structured visits can effectively promote adherence and improve child health outcomes. The program offers a replicable model for anemia prevention in underserved regions with limited access to formal healthcare.