# Emerging evidence for preoperative anaemia screening and blood health optimisation for paediatric surgical patients

## TL;DR

This paper highlights the high prevalence of preoperative anemia in children and the importance of screening and blood health optimization before surgery.

## Contribution

The paper introduces emerging evidence on preoperative anemia in children and advocates for improved screening and management strategies.

## Key findings

- Preoperative anemia is common in children, even those without comorbidities.
- Emerging evidence suggests the need for anemia screening in pediatric surgical patients.

## Abstract

Preoperative anaemia is common in children presenting for elective surgery, including those without comorbidity, particularly in low- and middle-income settings. This editorial discusses emerging evidence on the prevalence of paediatric preoperative anaemia and considers the implications for anaemia screening and paediatric patient blood management pathways.