Pediatric Summit highlights iron deficiency risks in Indonesian children

At the Pediatric Science & Health Summit 2026 held in Nusa Dua, Bali, medical experts highlighted critical nutritional challenges facing Indonesian children. Data from the South East Asian Nutrition Survey II (SEANUTS II) revealed that the average iron intake for Indonesian children is only 65.8 percent of the recommended nutritional requirements.

Prof. Dr. dr. Rini Sekartini, Sp. A(K), warned that iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia are often difficult to detect early but can severely impact the development of the nervous system, affecting cognitive functions, focus, and learning memory in children over five years old.

Speakers at the summit, including BPOM Head Prof. dr. Taruna Ikrar, emphasized the importance of investing in brain health and cognitive development during the first 1,000 days of life. Key discussions also addressed gut health via the gut-brain axis, milk protein allergies, stunting, and the role of animal protein in preventing growth disorders.