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A study on prevalence of anemia in pregnancy in South India

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Sarala V.
Sarala V.
Sarala V.
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Ushadevi Gopalan at Shri Sathya Sai Medical College and Research Institute
Ushadevi Gopalan
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Background: Anemia in pregnancy is a major health problem worldwide, especially in developing countries like India. Maternal and fetal outcomes are poor in pregnant patients with anemia. The most important cause of anemia is iron deficiency anemia which can be prevented by early oral iron supplementation.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the department of obstetrics and gynecology of our tertiary care teaching institution for a period of one year. 1290 pregnant women coming to the antenatal OPD were screened for anemia and 490 women. Patients who were not anemic were excluded. 800 patients were enrolled in the study. Each patient was interviewed using a structured interview schedule and the data obtained was analyzed.Results: The percentage of anemia in pregnant women was 62% in our study of which 40% were mildly anemic, 55% were moderately anemic and 5% were severely anemic. Maximum number of anemic women -mild, moderate and severe was seen in the age group 20-24 years. Mild and severe anemia was seen more in the secondary educated women. Maximum percentage of anemia was seen in the lower socio-economic status followed by middle and was lowest in the higher socio-economic status group. Prevalence of anemia was almost equal in primigravida and multigravidas (around 50%) but 80% of severely anemic patients were multigravida. Almost 68% took iron and folic acid tablets regularly.Conclusions: Treating anemia in pregnant women will go a long way in improving maternal and fetal outcome. Hence a future healthy younger generation can be produced. Iron tablets can be distributed at school to young girls to prevent anemia in future women.
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January 2020 · Volume 9 · Issue 1 Page 1
International Journal of Reproduction, Contraception, Obstetrics and Gynecology
Sarala V et al. Int J Reprod Contracept Obstet Gynecol. 2020 Jan;9(1):xxx-xxx
www.ijrcog.org
pISSN 2320-1770 | eISSN 2320-1789
Original Research Article
A study on prevalence of anemia in pregnancy in South India
Sarala V., Ushadevi Gopalan*
INTRODUCTION
Anemia during pregnancy is a major health problem in
South Asian countries and developing countries.1 It is still
more prevalent in India. Sowmya G et al, in their study
found the prevalence of anemia in pregnancy as 64.5%.2
Maternal deaths are more in antenatal patients suffering
from anemia than healthy mothers. The fetal outcome is
also poor with increased perinatal morbidity and
mortality.3 Anemia is the most common medical disorder
during pregnancy. The oxygen carrying capacity of the
blood is reduced in anemic patients. The most important
cause of anemia is nutritional. More than 70% of
pregnant women suffer from nutritional anemia in South
East Asia.4 This can be overcome by early oral iron
therapy because the most common type of anemia is iron
deficiency anemia (75%).5,6 This is mainly due to lack of
knowledge regarding the importance of nutrition on
maternal health, and poverty inhibits them from buying
healthy nutritious food.7,8 The aim of the present study is
to find out the prevalence of anemia and analyze the
distribution of the age, education, socio economic status
ABSTRACT
Background: Anemia in pregnancy is a major health problem worldwide, especially in developing countries like
India. Maternal and fetal outcomes are poor in pregnant patients with anemia. The most important cause of anemia is
iron deficiency anemia which can be prevented by early oral iron supplementation.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the department of obstetrics and gynecology of our tertiary
care teaching institution for a period of one year. 1290 pregnant women coming to the antenatal OPD were screened
for anemia and 490 women. Patients who were not anemic were excluded. 800 patients were enrolled in the study.
Each patient was interviewed using a structured interview schedule and the data obtained was analyzed.
Results: The percentage of anemia in pregnant women was 62% in our study of which 40% were mildly anemic, 55%
were moderately anemic and 5% were severely anemic. Maximum number of anemic women -mild, moderate and
severe was seen in the age group 20-24 years. Mild and severe anemia was seen more in the secondary educated
women. Maximum percentage of anemia was seen in the lower socio-economic status followed by middle and was
lowest in the higher socio-economic status group. Prevalence of anemia was almost equal in primigravida and
multigravidas (around 50%) but 80% of severely anemic patients were multigravida. Almost 68% took iron and folic
acid tablets regularly.
Conclusions: Treating anemia in pregnant women will go a long way in improving maternal and fetal outcome.
Hence a future healthy younger generation can be produced. Iron tablets can be distributed at school to young girls to
prevent anemia in future women.
Keywords: Anemia, Hemoglobin, Iron supplementation, Maternal mortality
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.18203/2320-1770.ijrcog20195617
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shri Sathya Sai Medical College and Research Institute, Ammapettai
Village, Kancheepuram District, Tamil Nadu, India
Received: 14 November 2019
Revised: 20 November 2019
Accepted: 25 November 2019
*Correspondence:
Dr. Ushadevi Gopalan,
E-mail: ushag7@hotmail.com
Copyright: © the author(s), publisher and licensee Medip Academy. This is an open-access article distributed under
the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial License, which permits unrestricted non-commercial
use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Sarala V et al. Int J Reprod Contracept Obstet Gynecol. 2020 Jan;9(1):xxx-xxx
International Journal of Reproduction, Contraception, Obstetrics and Gynecology Volume 9 · Issue 1 Page 2
and parity in pregnant anemic women and their
acceptance of oral iron therapy.
METHODS
This cross-sectional study was conducted in the
department of obstetrics and gynecology of our tertiary
care teaching institution for a period of one year between
January 2018 to December 2018. A total 1290 pregnant
women coming to our antenatal OPD were screened for
anemia using laboratory tests and 490 women who were
not anemic were excluded. A total 800 patients were
enrolled in the study.
Inclusion criteria
• Pregnant women
• Hb% less than 11 gm%.
Exclusion criteria
• Non pregnant women
• HB above 11 gm%.
Study population
Pregnant women attending the antenatal OPD of our
tertiary teaching institution between the ages of 18 to 50
years from nearby villages in Kancheepuram district were
considered.
• Total no. of AN Women - 1290
• No. of anemic patient - 800
• Percent of anemic patient - 62%.
Approval was obtained from the Institutional Ethics
Committee prior to the commencement of the study. Each
participant was explained in detail about the study and
written informed consent was obtained prior to the data
collection. Each patient was interviewed using a
structured interview schedule to obtain information
regarding the age, parity, educational and socio-economic
status. The severity of anemia was estimated and the
intake of iron supplementation by the pregnant patient
was also studied.
Statistical analysis
The data obtained was organized according to the
severity of anemia Data was entered and analyzed using
Microsoft Excel spreadsheet, and the various degrees of
anemia were expressed in percentage.
RESULTS
Out of 1290 OPD pregnant women 490 had Hb% above
11 gm/dl. So, the prevalence of anemia was 62% of
which 40% were mildly anemic (Hb-9-11 gm%), 55%
were moderately anemic (Hb-7-9 gm%) and 5% were
severely anemic (Hb-less than 7 gm%) according to
WHO classification (Figure 1).
Figure 1: Prevalence of anaemia among
pregnant women.
Table 1: Age distribution.
Age
Moderate anemia
Severe anemia
Total
< 20 years
63 (14.3%)
6 (15%)
104 (13%)
20-24
320 (72.73%)
24 (60%)
494 (61.75%)
25-29
44 (10%)
8 (20%)
177 (22.12%)
> 30
13 (2.95%)
2 (5%)
25 (3.72%)
Total
440
40
800
The 800 anemic women were included in the study. Mean
age of the participants was 22.6%. Maximum numbers of
anemic women were in the age group 20-24 years
(61.75%) followed by 22.1% in 25-29 years and 13% in
less than 20 years group. The least anemia was seen in
the age group more than 30 years (3.72%) (Table 1). Of
the antenatal women 11.5% were illiterate, primary and
secondary educated 36.5% and 44.75% respectively and
7.25% were graduate and above. Anemia was seen more
in the secondary educated women (44.75%) followed by
primary educated women (36.5%) and illiterate (11.5%).
Least percentage of anemias was seen in the graduate
Mild
40%
Moderate
55%
Severe
5%
Sarala V et al. Int J Reprod Contracept Obstet Gynecol. 2020 Jan;9(1):xxx-xxx
International Journal of Reproduction, Contraception, Obstetrics and Gynecology Volume 9 · Issue 1 Page 3
women (7.25%) (Table 2). On analyzing socio-economic
status as expected maximum percentage of anemia was
seen in the lower socio-economic status (63.75%)
followed by middle (32.625%) and was lowest in the
higher socio-economic status group (3.625%) (Table 3).
Prevalence of anemia in primigravida (49.25%) and
multigravida (50.75%) were almost equal but 80% of
severely anemic patients were multigravida. (Table 4).
Almost 68% took iron and folic acid tablets regularly
(Table 5).
Table 2: Educational status.
Education
Mild anemia
Moderate anemia
Severe anemia
Total
Illiterate
48 (15%)
40 (9%)
4 (10%)
92 (11.5%)
Primary
64 (20%)
218 (49.5%)
10 (25%)
292 (36.5%)
Secondary
176 (55%)
160 (36.36%)
22 (55%)
358 (44.75%)
Graduate / PG
32 (10%)
22 (5%)
4 (10%)
58 (7.25%)
Total
320
440
40
800 (100%)
Table 3: Socio economic status.
Status
Mild anemia
Moderate anemia
Severe anemia
Total
Low
192 (60%)
286 (65%)
32 (80%)
510 (63.75%)
Middle
106 (33.1%)
149 (33.86%)
6 (15%)
261 (32.625%)
High
22 (69%)
5 (1.14%)
3 (5%)
29 (3.625%)
Total
320
440
40
800 (100%)
Table 4: Parity.
Mild anemia
Moderate anemia
Severe anemia
Total
162 (50.6%)
224 (50.9%)
8 (20%)
394 (49.25%)
158 (49.4%)
216 (49%)
32 (80%)
406 (50.75%)
320
440
40
800 (100%)
Table 5: Iron supplementation.
Iron tab consumption
Mild
Moderate
Severe
Total
Yes
256 (80%)
264 (60%)
24 (60%)
544 (68%)
No
64 (20%)
176 (40%)
16 (40%)
256 (32%)
Total
320
440
40
800 (100%)
DISCUSSION
In this present study, the percentage and severity of
anemia in pregnant women was analyzed. The prevalence
of anemia in pregnancy in our study was 62%. The
severity of anemia was graded as per WHO classification
of anemia. 40% of the women were mildly anemic, 55%
were moderately anemic and 5% severely anemic.
Similar, results were obtained by Singh P et al.1 As per
our study, anemia was most prevalent in age 20-24 years
old (61.75%). This finding is almost the same as Gaurah
et al (77.9%) and Shwetha et al (70%).9,10 Regarding
educational qualification anemia was more prevalent in
primary and secondary educational level, 36.5% and
44.75% respectively. In our study of socio-economic
status, anemia was more common in lower strata of
women (63.75%). This finding correlates with that of
Ahmad N et al.11 Comparing primigravida with
multigravida women, anemia is almost equally
distributed among both (50.75%). In studies by Bison et
al and Sowmya et al, they have also reported the same
distribution (50%).2,12 All anemic patients were given
iron supplements oral or parenteral. Only 68% took the
treatment continuously (Table 5). Rest of them
discontinued at different periods.
CONCLUSION
Treating anemia in pregnant women will go a long way in
improving maternal and fetal outcome. Hence a future
healthy younger generation can be produced. Iron tablets
can be distributed at school to young girls to prevent
anemia in future women. Educating young girls regarding
hygiene, nutritious diet, iron supplement even in pre
pregnancy stage will prevent anemia to a great extent
during pregnancy.
Sarala V et al. Int J Reprod Contracept Obstet Gynecol. 2020 Jan;9(1):xxx-xxx
International Journal of Reproduction, Contraception, Obstetrics and Gynecology Volume 9 · Issue 1 Page 4
Funding: No funding sources
Conflict of interest: None declared
Ethical approval: The study was approved by the
Institutional Ethics Committee
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Cite this article as: Sarala V, Gopalan U. A study on
prevalence of anemia in pregnancy in South India. Int
J Reprod Contracept Obstet Gynecol 2020;9:xxx-xx.
... 4 This may be due to the lack of knowledge of importance of nutrition on maternal and fetal health and lack of resources to access health centres or obtain sources of nutrition. 5 Anemia is considered as a major cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality in developing countries. 6,7 It may lead to premature birth, low birth weight, fetal cognitive impairment, and fetal death. ...
... However severe anaemia was seen in uneducated or primary educated women in both the studies.1 In our study maximum number of women were from age group of 20-24 (48.8%) similar to study by Sarla et al in which it was 47%.5 Maximum prevalence of anaemia in our study was seen in low socioeconomic status women 58.9% similar to study done by Sarla et al 63.75%.5 ...
... However severe anaemia was seen in uneducated or primary educated women in both the studies.1 In our study maximum number of women were from age group of 20-24 (48.8%) similar to study by Sarla et al in which it was 47%.5 Maximum prevalence of anaemia in our study was seen in low socioeconomic status women 58.9% similar to study done by Sarla et al 63.75%.5 ...
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View
... 8,9 In addition, lack of education and understanding about health-related issues can contribute to delays in seeking care when it is needed or to the inappropriate management of life-threatening pregnancy complications. 10,11 In tropical countries, deficiency of both iron and folic acid deficiency which is seen is directly associated with poor health status, poverty, poor socioeconomic status, multiparity and less birth spacing. 7,11. ...
... This contrasts with prior studies that have reported a higher prevalence of anemia among lower socioeconomic groups. 10 The discrepancy in our findings could be attributed to the relative homogeneity of our sample. ...
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... Gaps remain in our knowledge of the relative contribution of these factors to the prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women in rural India. To date, studies of anaemia in rural India have focused on individual determinants of anaemia in isolation rather than looking at them jointly [14][15][16][17][18][19][20][21][22][23]. Evidence is also lacking speci c to anaemia among pregnant women in rural Tamil Nadu state. ...
... Similar studies among rural settings of Tamil Nadu have shown lower prevalence 17.5% [22] and 41.5% [ 14] The differences could be attributed to variability in sampling frame, the pregnancy period assessment, haemoglobin estimation methods used and also the mixed socioeconomic status in that settings. This study nding is similar (70%) with that of Salem study [34] because of comparable rates of almost universal biomass use and was even considered as a potential study site for the HAPIN study. ...
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Background Anaemia during pregnancy is a major public health concern in India. Biomass fuel use is common in a few rural areas of Tamil Nadu state and there is growing evidence that its use is associated with anaemia. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of anaemia and to identify the coexisting determinants of anaemia among exclusive biomass-using rural pregnant women. Methods We used baseline data collected from 799 rural pregnant women with a gestational age between 9 and 20 weeks from two districts of Tamil Nadu, India who were enrolled in a multi-country randomised controlled trial of a liquefied petroleum gas intervention. Haemoglobin (Hb) was measured in capillary blood using the Haemocue-201 point of case device. Hb was categorized as normal (Hb ≥ 11g/dL), mild anaemia (Hb 10.0-10.9g/dL), moderate anaemia (Hb 7.0-9.9g/dL), or severe anaemia (Hb < 7.0g/dL). Multinomial logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with anaemia. Results Overall prevalence of any anaemia was 66.7% (95% confidence interval: 63.4–70%) and that of mild anaemia was 31.9% (28.7–35.1%), moderate anaemia 33.7% (30.4–36.9%), and severe anaemia was 1.1% (0.6–2.2%) Wealth index, body mass index classified as underweight (< 18.5 kg/m ² ), being a multigravida, and hand wash area not observed were associated with a significantly higher odds of anaemia. Conclusion This exclusive biomass using pregnant women had quite higher rates of anaemia and underweight than that of rural estimates from recent NFHS reports for Tamil Nadu state indicating the need to improve their overall anthropometric status and anaemia together emphasizing on healthy dietary habits.
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... This was comparable to NFHS-5 data (52.2%). In a similar study done by Arora k et al., [10], the prevalence of anaemia was found to be 37.09% whereas in another study by V. S. Gopalan et al., [11] it was found to be 62%. Figure No. 1 depicts that Out of them, 30 (58.8%) women had mild anaemia, 19 (37.3%) women had moderate anaemia and (3.9%) women had severe anaemia. ...
... Figure No. 1 depicts that Out of them, 30 (58.8%) women had mild anaemia, 19 (37.3%) women had moderate anaemia and (3.9%) women had severe anaemia. In a similar study by V. S. Gopalan et al., [11], 40% were mildly anaemic, 55% were moderately anaemic and 5% were severely anaemic. ...
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View
... However, severe anaemia was seen in uneducated 13,14 or primary educated women in both the studies. In our study maximum number of women were from age group of 20-24 (46.9%) 15 similar to study by Sarla et al in which it was 47%. ...
... In our study, maximum prevalence of anaemia was seen in women with 15 lower socioeconomic status women (64%). Sarla et al and Lokare et 16 al also found higher association of anaemia among pregnant females 17 of low socioeconomic status. ...
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... These factors often lead to intentional or unintentional forgetting to consume the provided supplements, further complicating efforts to combat anemia in this demographic. Maternal anemia continues to be alarmingly common in developing nations, while the proportion of women who take one or more iron and folic acid (IFA) tablets during pregnancy remains consistently inadequate (Sarala, 2020). William Joe et al. noticed one study that after implementation of "Anaemia Mukt Bharat" strategy the IFA supplementation increased and other micronutrient such as B12, Folic acid also needed for reduction of anemia and now supply has been increased for this (Joe, 2022) (Toteja, 2006). ...
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Anemia among pregnant women remains a significant public health concern, particularly in urban slum areas where access to healthcare and proper nutrition is often limited. Iron deficiency anemia is a pervasive issue, particularly impacting pregnant women and adolescent girls, considered by the World Health Organization with hemoglobin levels below 11 g/dl. On a global scale, as of 2019, 37% of pregnant women and 30% of women aged 15 to 49 experience anemia. NFHS-5 data reveals that the prevalence of anemia among pregnant women in urban areas of India stands at 45.7%. This study explores the multifaceted factors influencing the prevalence of anemia among pregnant women residing in the urban slums of Kolkata, India. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to comprehensively assess the determinants of anemia among pregnant women in the Urban slums of Kolkata. Quantitative data collection involves structured surveys administered to pregnant women, focusing on socio-demographic characteristics, dietary habits, access to healthcare services, and knowledge of anemia prevention and management. Qualitative interviews delve deeper into the experiences and perceptions of pregnant women regarding anemia, exploring cultural beliefs, social norms, and barriers to accessing healthcare services. Additionally, healthcare providers and community health workers contribute insights into the challenges faced in addressing anemia in urban slum settings. Preliminary findings suggest that several interconnected factors contribute to the high prevalence of anemia among pregnant women in urban slum areas of Kolkata. These include inadequate antenatal care, limited availability of iron-rich foods, poor sanitation and hygiene practices, cultural beliefs surrounding pregnancy and nutrition, and socio-economic constraints. The study underscores the importance of multi-sectoral interventions aimed at addressing the complex determinants of anemia among pregnant women in urban slums. Effective strategies may involve improving access to antenatal care services, promoting nutrition education and supplementation, enhancing sanitation infrastructure, and fostering community engagement to challenge harmful cultural norms. By elucidating the nuanced factors influencing anemia in this vulnerable population, this research seeks to inform targeted interventions and policies aimed at improving maternal and child health outcomes in urban slum areas of Kolkata and similar settings worldwide.
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... Thus, majority of pregnant women suffering from anemia came from the lower socioeconomic strata of the population. This finding has been supported by the studies of Sarala V et al. and Ahmad N et al., who noted that anemia was more common in lower socioeconomic strata of women (20,21). K, Kavitha in her study on nutritional status of pregnant women in rural area of Tamil Nadu in 2011 also observed that 70% of the study population had a monthly income ranging from Rs. 2000 to Rs. 4000 (22). ...
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Article
  • Apr 2024
Background: Anemia during pregnancy is an important public health problem, in developing countries. This community based study was conducted in Northeast India to study the prevalence of anemia along with the associated socioeconomic factors. Methods: The present one-year cross sectional study was carried out in the selected villages under Lahowal Block of Dibrugarh District and the relevant data was collected in a pre-designed and pre-tested proforma by house to house interviews. The sample size was calculated 310. Clinical examination was done and haemoglobin estimation was performed using Sahli’s acid hematin method. Data were analyzed in Microsoft Excel using percentage, range, t-test and ANOVA; wherever applicable. A significance level of 5% was taken with 95% confidence interval Results: Anemia was seen in 89.68% of the subjects. The highest mean hemoglobin (Hb) level was observed in the 1st trimester subjects (9.14 gm/dl), while the lowest mean Hb-level was observed in the 3rd trimester subjects (8.90 gm/dl). A significant difference was observed between the mean Hb-levels of the study subjects belonging to nuclear families and joint families, subjects belonging to different socio-economic status, different levels of education, different professions, those consuming tobacco and those not consuming tobacco, and those consuming betel nut and not consuming betel nut. Conclusion: There was a high prevalence of anemia in pregnancy which was related to the socioeconomic status, occupational status, level of education, type of family, and personal habits in these women.
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... The present study attempted to assess severe anemia in pregnancy and reviewed the associated adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. The prevalence of severe anemia was high at 4.4%, similar to the findings of Jaleel R and Khan A (4.8%), and Sarala V and Gopalan U (5%). 11,12 Most other Indian studies have also reported high prevalence in close approximation only. [13][14][15][16] This may be attributable to low intake of iron/folic acid in the diet, relatively lower bioavailability of iron, and prolonged blood loss due to gastrointestinal infections. ...
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... 32% moderately anemic and 40% were severely anemic. This study is comparable to Sarala et al.6 32% anemic patients were managed with oral iron, 20% with parenteral iron therapy and 48% with blood transfusion. The most common complication during the antenatal period in anemic cases was preeclampsia in 14 patients, preterm in 13 patients, PPH in 4 patients, while in control group only 5 patients had preeclampsia, 6 patients had preterm labour and 2 patients had PPH. ...
Analytical study of an iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy at tertiary care center
Article
Full-text available
  • Aug 2023
Background: Anemia is a serious global public health problem affecting both developing and developed countries in reproductive age group. India contributes to about 80% of the maternal deaths due to anemia in south Asia. The objective was to analyse maternal and fetal outcome in anemic pregnant patients as compared to non anemic pregnant patients. Methods: This analytical study of 100 patients (50 anemic and 50 control groups) was conducted in department of obstetrics and gynecology, at tertiary care hospital, Surat from September 2022 to June 2023. Results: 56% were booked against 86% in the control group.44% were unbooked against 14% in the control group.66% in cases and 76% in controls were in majority age group of 21-29 years. 68% of the anemic women were multigravida as 50% in the control group.66% of the cases and 34% of the controls belongs to low socioeconomic class. Out of 50 cases of anemia 28% mild, 32% moderate and 40% severe degree. 32% anemic patients were managed with oral iron, 20% with parenteral iron therapy and 48% with blood transfusion. In cases, preeclampsia in 14 patients, preterm in 13 patients, PPH in 4 patients, while in control group 5 patients had preeclampsia, 6 patients had preterm labour and 2 patients had PPH. 1% maternal mortality in cases and zero in control groups. Conclusions: Antenatal management with correcting prenatal anemic status with dietary advises, prophylactic iron therapy, planned pregnancy with ensuring maternal iron sufficiency during gestation is most effective method.
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A Comparative Study to Assess the Impact of Maternal Anaemia on Placenta Weight and Foetal Well-Being, in a Selected Tertiary Care Hospital, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu, India
Article
Full-text available
  • Mar 2025
Background of the study: Anaemia is the most common blood disorder that may occur during pregnancy. It has varied prevalence, etiology and degree of severity in different populations, being more common in non-industrialized countries. Anaemia is responsible for approximately 40% of maternal deaths in third world countries. It causes direct as well as indirect deaths due to cardiac failure, haemorrhage, infection and pre-eclampsia. Methodology: Quantitative exploratory research approach was selected to assess the placental weight and fetal wellbeing among anaemic and non-anaemic pregnant women. An analytical cross-sectional design was selected for this study. Eighty two pregnant women (41 anaemic and 41 non-anaemic women), who visited the labor ward at Chrompet government hospital, Tamil Nadu, India were selected. A structured interview schedule was used to collect the demographic, placental and fetal characteristics. Comparison of the impact of maternal anaemia on placental weight and fetal wellbeing among anaemic and non-anaemic pregnant women was done. Result and analysis: The comparative study reveals an evident statistically significant association between the placental weight and neonates birth weightamong non-anaemic pregnant women (χ2 = 17.680) at p < 0.05, which indicates that the placental weight gain has successfully influenced the birth weight of the newborn among non-anaemic pregnant women, while this association was not statistically significant among the anaemic pregnant women (χ2 = 9.938) as low haemoglobin levels have hindered the effective weight gain of the placenta and thereby birth weight of the newborn. There exist a positive correlation between the placental weight and neonate’s birth weight among anaemic and non-anaemic pregnant women which indicates that adequate weight gain of the placenta has a direct effect on the fetal weight gain and vice-versa among anaemic and non-anaemic pregnant women. Conclusion: The study concludes that the level of haemoglobin has a positive correlation and significant association with the placental weight and birth weight of newborn which indicates that maintenance of normal haemoglobin is essential for the normal growth and development of the placenta which proportionately influences the growth of the baby. Among mothers for whom this scenario was not met it was evident that there was a vice-versa effect on the placental weight and birth weight of newborn due to low haemoglobin level. The maintenance of maternal health must ideally begin much before the childbearing age and continue further through the postpartum period in order to prevent various complications pertaining to anaemia.
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Prevalence of anemia among pregnant women - A cross-sectional study
Article
Full-text available
  • Jan 2018
Background: Anemia in pregnancy is a worldwide problem, but it is most prevalent in the developing world. Anemia during pregnancy affects both mother’s and her child’s health. Globally, the prevalence of anemia is 74% among pregnant women, and in India, it ranges from 19% to 61%. Anemia during pregnancy will lead to consequences such as fetal anemia, low birth weight, preterm delivery, intrauterine growth restriction, and perinatal mortality. Anemia during pregnancy and its consequences can be prevented and treated if diagnosed on time. Objective: This study was done with the objective to determine the prevalence of anemia and its associated factors among pregnant women. Materials and Methods: A retrospective record‑based study was conducted at the Urban Health and Training Centre (UHTC) of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Medical College, Bengaluru. The study was conducted for a period of 2 months (May–June 2017). All the antenatal mothers visiting the UHTC for regular antenatal checkup during this period were included in the study after taking informed consent for participation in the study. The data were collected using semi‑structured questionnaire. Results: Among 300 study subjects, most of them were in the age group of 21–35 years with mean age 24.4 + 4.2 years. Around 67% of study subjects were in the second trimester and 42% were primigravida. The prevalence of anemia among pregnant mothers was 68.6% (60.6% and 8.0% were mild and moderately anemic, respectively), none of the study subjects were severely anemic. There was no significant association between hemoglobin status and factors such as education, diet, age at first pregnancy, and gravid status, but there was significant association between spacing between pregnancy and utilization of integrated child development nutritional services and hemoglobin status of pregnant mothers. Conclusion: The prevalence of anemia among pregnant women was high. Spacing between pregnancies will have a significant impact on hemoglobin status of pregnant women.
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Prevalence of anemia in pregnancy and its outcome in rural Tertiary Care Centre in India
Article
Full-text available
  • Apr 2019
Anemia in pregnancy is a major health problem in developing countries. Haemorrhage ranks first in the list of maternal mortality in developing countries. Materials and Methods: A prospective study on all anaemic pregnant patients (according to WHO) admitted to labour room of more than 28 weeks gestational age from May 2015 to May 2017 in Sri Siddhartha Medical College, Tumkur were included in the study and appropriately treated. Demographic factors like age, education, socioeconomic status, parity, birth spacing and intake of iron supplements was studied. Maternal and perinatal outcome was also studied. Results: Among 2982 deliveries, 32 cases were excluded according to exclusion criteria. About 1903 were found to be anemic. In these cases, 61% were in 20-24yrs age group, 35% patients educated upto middle school, 71% belonged to low socioeconomic status, 62.1% had less than 2 years of birth spacing. All these factors were statistically significant. But 38% cases had not received iron supplements. Although mild anemia cases were uneventful, moderate and severe anaemia cases had maternal complications. In moderate anemia, 4% patients had PPH and received blood and blood products, 10 % had puerperial fever and rest uneventful. Severe anemia had significant outcome: preterm labour (38%), preeclampsia (20%), IUGR (10%), intrauterine fetal demise (8%), abruption placenta (7%), placenta previa (1%), puerperal fever (7.2%), cardiac failure (0.8%), PPH (8%). Maternal mortality was noted in 3 patients. About 35 neonates of mild anaemic cases,65 neonates of moderate anaemic cases and nearly 46.5% of severe anaemia cases had complications. Conclusion: Prevalence of anemia is most common in rural population. Demographic factors also play a very important role. Effective management of anemia cases definitely prevents maternal and perinatal mortality.
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ANEMIA DURING PREGNANCY IN THE WOMEN OF WESTERN NEPAL
Article
Full-text available
  • Jan 2013
Objective: Anemia is the most common nutritional deficiency disorder in the world. The prevalence of anemia in pregnancy varies considerably because of differences in socioeconomic conditions, lifestyles and health seeking behaviors across different cultures. The aim of this study was to evaluatethe prevalence of anemia among pregnant women in western part of Nepal.Method: A hospital based study was carried out in Nepalgunj Medical College, Kohalpur, Banke Nepal to determine prevalence of anemia among pregnant women. A total of 512 pregnant (15-45 years old) were included in thisstudy. Cyanmethaemoglobin method was used to determine the hemoglobin level. The study took place from January 2012 to December 2012. Statistical analyses were carried out by applying percentage and words excel 2007.Results: Out of five hundred twelve pregnant women, 210(41.02%) pregnant women were anemic and 302 pregnant women were non anemic (58.98%). Also, among these anemic pregnant women, majority (67.14 %) of these women were mildly anemic, whereas 28.57% were moderately and 4.29% were severely anemic.Conclusion: Prevalence of anemia was higher in the pregnant women at the second trimester (51.1%) and also at the 20-35 years age group (62.79%).
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Anaemia in Pregnancy: Prevalence and Possible Risk Factors in Kakamega County, Kenya
Article
Full-text available
  • Jan 2014
Anaemia in expectant women is a serious world-wide public health problem with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Haematological parameters indicative of pregnancy anaemia need to be investigated to provide basis for prompt management of anaemia in pregnancy. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of anaemia in pregnant mothers of various age groups and at different gestation periods visiting antenatal clinic at a county level 5 hospital. The ages of recruited participants ranged from 16 to 40 years with a mean age of 26.8 ± 4.3 years. A total of 320 blood samples were collected during the first and subsequent visits to antenatal clinic from January to December 2013. The age, marital, socio-economic status, highest level of education, stages of each pregnancy of each participant were recorded. Haemoglobin estimation was done using a HemoCue® B-Hemoglobin system and positive anaemia cases were classified as mild, moderate, severe and very severe based on the world health organization criteria. The haemoglobin concentrations ranged from 6.5 g/dl – 15.5 g/dl with a mean of 10.2 ± 1.3g/dl. Data was analysed using the Chi-square test and Odds ratio. Out of all blood samples analyzed, 128 (40%) were anaemic of which 62.5% (n=80) were mildly anaemic cases whereas 37.5% (n=48) were moderately anaemic and no severe anaemic cases were detected. Anaemia was more prevalent (33.3% -60%) in second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Study results confirm that socio-economic deprivation and lack of basic education are important factors that predispose pregnant women to anaemia. Anaemia levels reported are low but persistent and present a potentially serious public health problem to the mother, foetal growth and delivery outcome and therefore require serious attention. It is recommended that the county government initiates free iron supplementation and enlist services of extension nutritionists in an integrated programme for the prevention and management of pregnancy related anaemia.
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The Effect of Early Marriages and Early Childbearing on Women’s Nutritional Status in India
Article
Full-text available
  • Feb 2015
The consequences of early childbearing on the growth and nutritional status of women in India has not been quantified in previous studies. Our study aimed to fill this gap by analysing the association between early marriage and early childbearing on nutritional status of Indian women, with a focus on Bihar and Andhra Pradesh, the two states accounting for the highest proportion of women marrying and giving first birth before 18 years of age. Our findings revealed that a substantial number of women were married before 18 years and thereby exposed to early pregnancy. Furthermore, a significantly higher proportion of women in the 'thin' category were married before 18 years, both in the Indian sample (33 %, p < 0.001) and in the selected states, Andhra Pradesh (31 %, p < 0.001) and Bihar (43 %, p < 0.001), compared to those women married at higher ages. Similarly, across all our samples women whose first birth was before age 18 years also had a significantly higher probability of being in the 'thin' category across all our samples. This pattern was also observed for associations between early childbirth and anemia levels. We conclude that the net effect of the early age at marriage and age at first birth on nutritional status is significant. Our results underline the need for preventing early marriages and the consequent high adolescent pregnancies in India, particularly in high prevalence states. This will help to improve nutritional status and health care utilisation among women, thereby, prevent maternal and child mortality and thus, achieve the MDGs 4-5.
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The prevalence of anaemia and associated factors in pregnant women in a rural Indian community
Article
Full-text available
  • May 2010
  • AMJ
Background Anaemia is the most frequently observed nutritional diseases in the world. In India, anaemia is the second most common cause of maternal death, accounting for 20% of total maternal deaths. This study aims to determine the prevalence of anaemia and to explore factors associated with anaemia in one rural Indian pregnant population.
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Worldwide prevalence of anaemia, WHO Vitamin and Mineral Nutrition Information System, 1993–2005
Article
  • Jun 2008
To provide current global and regional estimates of anaemia prevalence and number of persons affected in the total population and by population subgroup. We used anaemia prevalence data from the WHO Vitamin and Mineral Nutrition Information System for 1993-2005 to generate anaemia prevalence estimates for countries with data representative at the national level or at the first administrative level that is below the national level. For countries without eligible data, we employed regression-based estimates, which used the UN Human Development Index (HDI) and other health indicators. We combined country estimates, weighted by their population, to estimate anaemia prevalence at the global level, by UN Regions and by category of human development. Survey data covered 48.8 % of the global population, 76.1 % of preschool-aged children, 69.0 % of pregnant women and 73.5 % of non-pregnant women. The estimated global anaemia prevalence is 24.8 % (95 % CI 22.9, 26.7 %), affecting 1.62 billion people (95 % CI 1.50, 1.74 billion). Estimated anaemia prevalence is 47.4 % (95 % CI 45.7, 49.1 %) in preschool-aged children, 41.8 % (95 % CI 39.9, 43.8 %) in pregnant women and 30.2 % (95 % CI 28.7, 31.6 %) in non-pregnant women. In numbers, 293 million (95 % CI 282, 303 million) preschool-aged children, 56 million (95 % CI 54, 59 million) pregnant women and 468 million (95 % CI 446, 491 million) non-pregnant women are affected. Anaemia affects one-quarter of the world's population and is concentrated in preschool-aged children and women, making it a global public health problem. Data on relative contributions of causal factors are lacking, however, which makes it difficult to effectively address the problem.
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The burden of iron deficiency and anemia in Asia: Challenges in prevention and control. Nutritional Goals for Asia-Vision 2020: Proceedings IX Asian Congress of Nutrition
  • Jan 2003
  • 313-318
  • R F Florentine
Florentine RF. The burden of iron deficiency and anemia in Asia: Challenges in prevention and control. Nutritional Goals for Asia-Vision 2020: Proceedings IX Asian Congress of Nutrition. New Delhi, Nutrition Foundation of India; 2003:313-318.
Park textbook of preventive and social medicine by K Park
  • Jan 2013
  • 575
  • K Park
Park K. Park textbook of preventive and social medicine by K Park. Iron deficiency anemia: Jabalpur: M/S Banarsidas Bhanot, 21 st edition' 2013:575.
To study the efficacy, safety and compliance of iron sucrose in mild, moderate and severe anaemia in antenatal patient
  • Jan 2017
  • 350-355
  • R T Gourah
  • A Anand
Gourah RT, Anand A. To study the efficacy, safety and compliance of iron sucrose in mild, moderate and severe anaemia in antenatal patient. Indian J Obstet Gynaecol Res. 2017;4(4):350-5.