Prevalence and Factors associated with Anemia in Children of Under Five Years age: A Cross-Sectional Study in Waghodia Taluka, Vadodara, Gujarat Anaemia, particularly due to iron deficiency, is a widespread health concern globally, affecting around 1.62 billion individuals, which is approximately 24.8% of the global population. This condition is especially prevalent among children under five, with a global prevalence rate of 47%. Children's health is a critical indicator of a nation's overall health, and addressing anemia is crucial in this context.Aim:This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of anemia among children under five years of age and identify associated risk factors in Waghodia taluka, Vadodara, Gujarat.Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 276 children under five years of age in Waghodia taluka. The children's mothers were interviewed using a structured, pre-tested questionnaire to gather socioeconomic and demographic data. Anthropometric measurements and capillary blood samples were collected from each child. Multivariate logistic regression was used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (AOR) to identify factors associated with anemia. Results:The study included 53.26% boys and 46.7% girls. The overall prevalence of anemia was 42.75%, with mild anemia at 61%, moderate at 35.5%, and severe at 3.4%. Significant factors associated with anemia included: Low socioeconomic Class(AOR: 14.01; 95% CI: 5.216-37.683), Lower middle class (AOR: 1.4; 95% CI: 0.525-3.650), Underweight children (AOR: 2.83; 95% CI: 1.731-4.656), Mothers with no formal education (AOR: 2.14; 95% CI: 0.273-16.814), Primary education (AOR: 2.02; 95% CI: 0.274-15.009), Secondary education (AOR: 0.15; 95% CI: 0.20-1.148), Maternal iron deficiency anemia (AOR: 8.32; 95% CI: 4.690-14.770) and Lack of maternal iron supplementation during pregnancy (AOR: 9.4; 95% CI: 5.43-16.243). Conclusion:The study revealed a high prevalence of anemia among children under five years of children. Policymakers should focus on strategies to alleviate poverty, enhance maternal education, and raise awareness about breastfeeding, nutrition, and related factors to combat anemia. A multidisciplinary and multifaceted approach is essential to effectively address and reduce anemia in children.