A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY ON PREVALENCE AND ETIOLOGY OF ANAEMIA IN PREGNANT FEMALE IN A TERTIARY CARE CENTRE

Background: Anemia in pregnancy is a significant public health concern, particularly in developing countries, where it contributes to maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. The etiology of anemia in pregnant women is multifactorial, often involving nutritional deficiencies, particularly iron, vitamin B12, and folate. Understanding the prevalence, causes, and associated factors of anemia in this population is crucial for developing effective interventions.

Aim: The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of anemia among pregnant women attending a tertiary care center and to determine its etiology and associated factors.

Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Government Hospital, Kota, including 250 pregnant women. Participants underwent a detailed clinical examination, and blood samples were analyzed for hemoglobin levels and peripheral blood smear findings. The study assessed nutritional deficiencies, including iron, vitamin B12, and folate, as the primary etiologies of anemia. Data on sociodemographic factors, parity, birth spacing, and ANC booking status were also collected and analyzed for associations with anemia.

Results: The study found a high prevalence of anemia (81.2%) among the participants, with moderate anemia being the most common form (54.4%). Nutritional deficiencies were the primary causes, with iron deficiency anemia present in 48% of cases. A significant proportion of women (20.8%) had combined deficiencies of vitamin B12, folate, and iron. Anemia was significantly associated with lower socioeconomic status, multiparity, and birth spacing of less than 24 months. No significant associations were observed with age, education, occupation, residence, type of family, or ANC booking status.

Conclusion: This study underscores the high burden of anemia among pregnant women, driven predominantly by nutritional deficiencies. The findings highlight the importance of addressing socioeconomic disparities and providing targeted nutritional interventions to reduce the incidence of anemia in this population.