DID you know that nearly 1 in 3 Malaysian children — particularly those under the age of three — are at risk of developing anemia, with iron deficiency being the most common cause? A 2022 study¹ published in 2025 in JMIR Pediatrics and Parenting revealed that 30% of Malaysian children aged six to 36 months were found to be at risk of anemia based on their hemoglobin levels. Yet, most parents remain unaware of the early signs of iron deficiency — or the long-term impact it can have on their child’s development.
This finding highlights an urgent yet often undetected issue. Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA) may not show visible symptoms in its early stages, but it can severely impact a child’s brain development, physical growth and long-term learning ability. In fact, a study² by Agaoglu et al. (2007) found that children with untreated IDA scored up to 13% lower in IQ than their healthy peers — highlighting how iron deficiency in children can negatively affect long-term cognitive function. Preventing iron deficiency in early childhood is essential to mitigate irreversible deficits in motor, cognitive and behavioral functions, as shown in a recent systematic review by Theola and Andriastuti (2025)³.
As a brand committed to advancing child nutrition, Dugro is stepping up to address this concern through its Iron Strong campaign.
By launching this movement, Dugro aims to empower parents with knowledge, practical tools and access to early screening — helping them take meaningful steps to support their child’s healthy development.
Nutritional awareness
The Dugro Generation Iron Strong event will take place from Aug 20 – 24 at IOI City Mall, Putrajaya (LG – West Wing).
This on-ground activation is part of Dugro’s nationwide campaign to raise awareness about IDA through educational content, expert-backed initiatives and engaging activities. The event is designed to educate parents on the importance of early nutrition and adequate iron intake to support their child’s brain development and overall growth.
Families can look forward to meaningful activities, including iron intake screenings, educational games, exclusive gifts with purchase and a special tribute to inspiring individuals who grew up with Dugro. Guests can also complete all activity stations to collect stamps and redeem exciting prizes during the event.
Both fun and impactful, the event offers a valuable opportunity for parents and children to learn, connect and take a proactive step toward better health.
The campaign is also aimed at fostering a community of informed caregivers and advocates who are committed to building an Iron Strong Generation.
Why iron matters
Iron is a key nutrient that helps support your child’s overall well-being.
To help parents take the first step, Dugro offers an Iron Intake Questionnaire — available both online and on-site during the event. This helps assess whether your child’s current nutrition meets their developmental needs.
The good news: Dugro is formulated with Iron Active to help support absorption of this essential nutrient.
Combined with 21 vitamins and minerals and DHA, Dugro supports what it calls 360° development — nurturing your child’s learning, growth and confidence as they reach their full potential.
Visual tributes
The Dugro Generation Iron Strong Event features the Wall of Iron Strong, a visual tribute to five inspiring Malaysians who grew up drinking Dumex Dugro.
Today, they thrive as a biotechnologist, an athlete, an engineer, a creative and an advocate —which reflects what is possible with strong values and nutrition.
These individuals, who are key opinion leaders, demonstrates how having a nutritional foundation can help shape capable, confident adults.
Their stories are on display to inspire today’s parents to take action and believe in the importance of early nutrition.
Empower your parenting journey with the right knowledge and tools. Explore fun, insights and inspiration — all at Dugro’s meaningful event from Aug 20–24 at IOI City Mall in Putrajaya.
References
1.Jalaludin MY, Kiau HB, Hasim S, Lee WK, Low A, Kazim NHN, Hoi JT, Taher SW. A noninvasive approach to assess the prevalence of and factors associated with anemia risk in Malaysian children under three years of age: Cross-sectional study. JMIR Pediatrics and Parenting 2025;8:e58586 doi: 10.2196/58586
2. Agaoglu L, Torun O, Unuvar E, Sefil Y, Demir D. Effects of iron deficiency anemia on cognitive function in children. Arzneimittelforschung. 2007;57(6A):426-30. doi: 10.1055/s-0031-1296691. PMID: 17691592.
3. Theola J, Andriastuti M. Neurodevelopmental Impairments as Long-term Effects of Iron Deficiency in Early Childhood: A Systematic Review. Balkan Med J. 2025 Mar 3;42(2):108-120. doi: 10.4274/balkanmedj.galenos.2025.2024-11-24. Epub 2025 Jan 31. PMID: 39887058; PMCID: PMC11881539.
