Which of the following statements about iron deficiency anemia in toddlers is true?

• A. Toddlers do not need iron in their diet.
• B. Screening for iron deficiency anemia is optional and rarely indicated.
• C. Iron deficiency anemia due to inadequate iron intake is a common nutrition concern in toddlers and should be screened.
• D. Iron overload is a common concern in toddlers.

Answer: (C)

Iron is essential for growth and brain development in toddlers, who have high needs relative to their small stomachs. Because many toddlers’ diets can be low in iron—especially when milk consumption is high or dietary variety is limited—iron deficiency anemia is a common nutrition concern in this age group. Early detection matters because iron deficiency can affect development even before anemia becomes severe, so screening helps catch problems before they cause lasting effects and allows timely intervention, such as increasing dietary iron or providing iron supplements.

The other statements aren’t accurate: iron is required in the toddler diet, not optional; screening for iron deficiency anemia is recommended rather than rarely indicated; and iron overload is not a common concern in healthy toddlers unless there is a specific disorder or excessive supplementation.