Final answer:
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends hemoglobin screening for children at 12 months of age to check for anemia, particularly iron deficiency anemia. This is essential for early diagnosis and appropriate intervention to ensure healthy growth and development.
Step-by-step explanation:
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends measuring a child's hemoglobin level at 12 months of age to screen for anemia.
Children's hemoglobin levels are a critical indicator of their overall health and well-being. The hemoglobin level is crucial since it carries oxygen throughout the body and removing carbon dioxide from it. Low levels in children can indicate iron deficiency anemia, which is prevalent among children, adolescent girls, and nursing mothers.
Iron deficiency anemia can manifest with hemoglobin concentrations of 5 to 9 g/100 ml, leading to symptoms such as poor appetite, delayed growth, and development, as well as overall pallor and a lack of activity. Regular screening helps in early diagnosis and intervention, thereby supporting healthy development. For diabetic children, maintaining a hemoglobin A1c level close to 7% is important to prevent complications. The level is reflective of average blood glucose over a period and is an essential part of diabetes management.