Background: Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) remains one of the most serious public health challenges in India, particularly among children under five years of age. Micronutrient deficiencies — specifically of serum iron, folate, and vitamin B12 — frequently co-exist with SAM and contribute significantly to the overall morbidity and poor developmental outcomes seen in these children. However, data specific to the eastern Indian population remain limited.Objective: To assess the serum levels of iron, folate, and vitamin B12 in children diagnosed with SAM at a tertiary care centre of West Bengal, and to correlate these deficiencies with relevant sociodemographic characteristics.Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted over twelve months at a tertiary care centre in West Bengal. A total of 66 children aged 6 months to 59 months, diagnosed with SAM as per WHO criteria, were enrolled using a purposive sampling technique. Venous blood was collected to measure serum iron, serum folate, and serum vitamin B12 levels. Sociodemographic and clinical data were recorded in a pre-designed proforma.Results: Of 66 children studied, iron deficiency was detected in 72.7% (n=48), folate deficiency in 59.1% (n=39), and vitamin B12 deficiency in 63.6% (n=42). The majority of children (74.2%) were from rural backgrounds and belonged to lower socioeconomic strata. A significant association was found between micronutrient deficiency and maternal illiteracy, exclusive cereal-based diets, and non-exclusive breastfeeding practices.Conclusion: Micronutrient deficiencies are highly prevalent in SAM children in West Bengal. Integrated nutritional rehabilitation strategies that address iron, folate, and vitamin B12 supplementation alongside standard SAM management are essential.

Severe Acute Malnutrition, Serum Iron, Folate, Vitamin B12, Children, West Bengal, Micronutrient Deficiency