Anaya Khaanan, a 21-month-old toddler from Burnley, Lancashire, died from severe anaemia after being fed a predominantly cow's milk-based diet, an inquest has concluded. She passed away at the Royal Blackburn Hospital on July 22, 2025, before doctors could administer a blood transfusion.
Inquest Reveals Cause of Death
The inquest, held at Preston Coroners' Court on Tuesday, heard that Anaya had been born in Pakistan and struggled to consume enough solid food to meet her iron needs. Area Coroner Kate Bisset recorded a narrative conclusion, stating that the cause of death was severe anaemia caused by a predominantly milk-based diet.
According to the coroner, Anaya was offered solid foods but could not consume sufficient oral intake, particularly as her anaemia progressed and she became tired. She had been seen by a GP who ordered blood tests, and on July 10, 2025, she attended an urgent treatment centre where she was diagnosed with a urinary tract infection. No blood tests were performed at that time as they were not clinically indicated.
Final Hours and Medical Response
On the evening of July 21, Anaya's condition worsened, and she was taken to hospital. Medical staff decided she required a blood transfusion, but she deteriorated and died before the transfusion could be carried out. The coroner noted that plans for the transfusion were instigated, but Anaya's decline was rapid.
The case highlights the dangers of a milk-based diet for toddlers, which can lead to iron deficiency anaemia if solid foods are not adequately consumed. Health experts recommend that children over 12 months should have a balanced diet including iron-rich foods, with cow's milk limited to no more than 500ml per day.
