Biomarkers Reflecting Inflammation and Nutrition Determinants of Anemia (BRINDA): Project Overview

Abstract

There is a need to further understand the relationship between inflammation and nutrition biomarkers and refine the relative contribution of nutritional and other risk factors for anemia across settings. The CDC, GAIN, and NICHD formed a collaborative research group called Biomarkers Reflecting Inflammation and Nutrition Determinants of Anemia (BRINDA). We identified data from nationally and regionally representative surveys that included preschool children (PSC, 6–59 mo), school-age children (SAC, 5–14 yr) and women of reproductive age (WRA, 15–49 yr) that at minimum measured hemoglobin, inflammation (C-reactive protein and/or alpha1-acid glycoprotein), and iron status. Of 23 datasets identified, permission to date was received for 15. Individual country and aggregated analyses will be performed. Priority research topics generated include: 1) association among inflammation, anemia, iron, and vitamin A, as well as and approaches to account for the effect to adjust for the effects of inflammation on nutrient interpretation; and 2) risk factors and their relative contribution to anemia. BRINDA results will inform guidelines on the measurement and interpretation of anemia and micronutrients. Findings will also guide the development of a research agenda for future longitudinal studies. Research support: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, CDC, GAIN, NICHD