Long-term effects of neonatal iron deficiency to neurodevelopment

Abstract

Iron deficiency is one of the most prevalent nutritional problems worldwide, particularly in developing countries such as Viet Nam. The neonatal period represents a critical stage when iron requirements sharply increase to support rapid physical development and neurodevelopment, making infants especially vulnerable to deficiency. The objective of this review is to analyze long-term effects of early-life iron deficiency on central nervous system development, based on previous studies retrieved from PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane. Selected literature focused on the association between neonatal iron deficiency and neurodevelopmental outcomes. The synthesis of evidence indicates that early iron deficiency may induce structural and biochemical alterations in the brain, leading to cognitive impairments, delayed motor development, and socio-emotional dysregulation. Notably, multiple studies demonstrate that these adverse effects can persist into adolescence and adulthood, even after iron supplementation and restoration of iron stores. This review contributes to the consolidation of current evidence, highlighting the potentially irreversible nature of neurodevelopmental impairments associated with early iron deficiency, and underscoring the importance of early screening, preventive strategies, and long-term neurodevelopmental monitoring after treatment to minimize lasting sequelae.