Relation of neonatal iron status to individual variability in neonatal temperament

• DOI: 10.1002/dev.20049
• Publication Date: 2005-02-24T23:17:38Z
• Authors: Theodore D. Wachs; Ernesto Pollitt; Santiago Cueto; Enrique Jacoby; Hilary Creed‐Kana...
• Keywords: Alertness

Abstract The relation between indices of neonatal iron status and individual differences in temperament were investigated a sample 148 low‐income Peruvian women their newborn infants. Using cord blood, at birth we obtained measures ferritin, serum iron, hemoglobin. While neonates still the hospital, behavior during structured anthropometry examination was videotaped subsequently coded on four dimensions: activity level, negative emotionality, alertness, soothability. same dimensions using videotape subsequent visit to neonates' homes. Results indicated that lower levels hemoglobin related higher emotionality alertness A similar pattern found for but only females. For most part, relations linear, operating across full range values. Our iron–temperament results could not be attributed variation family demographics, low weight, gestational age, maternal dietary intake, or markers illness diabetes. findings are consistent with prior research older infants relating deficiency temperament. These support importance increased early functional–behavioral consequences as well mechanisms underlie such consequences. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 46: 141–153, 2005.