Effectiveness of the Test Strip Method for Hemoglobin Assessment to Identify Anemia in Pregnant Women at Puskesmas Batalaiworu, Kabupaten Muna, Southeast Sulawesi

Background: Anemia during pregnancy remains a significant public health issue worldwide, particularly in developing countries. It increases the risk of maternal complications, low birth weight, preterm delivery, and perinatal mortality. Early detection of hemoglobin levels is crucial; however, limited laboratory resources in primary healthcare facilities often hinder timely screening. Test strip hemoglobin methods offer a practical and cost-effective alternative for such settings.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the hemoglobin test strip in identifying anemia among pregnant women attending Puskesmas Batalaiworu, Kabupaten Muna, Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia.

Methods: A descriptive-analytic cross-sectional design was employed. The study included 60 pregnant women who underwent antenatal care (ANC) at Puskesmas Batalaiworu, selected using purposive sampling. The independent variable was hemoglobin measurement using the test strip, while the dependent variable was anemia status (Hb <11 g/dL = anemia; ≥11 g/dL = normal). Confounding variables included maternal age, parity, gestational age, education level, and nutritional status. Data were analyzed using SPSS software, applying univariate and bivariate analyses, including Chi-square and Kappa tests to assess the agreement between the test strip and standard hematology analyzer.

Results: Most respondents were within the healthy reproductive age group (20–35 years, 57%) and in the third trimester of pregnancy (50%). Compliance with iron tablet supplementation was 60%, while 40% were non-compliant. Anemia prevalence was 43%, with mean hemoglobin levels highest in the first trimester (11.53 g/dL), decreasing in the second trimester (10.15 g/dL), and slightly rising in the third trimester (10.45 g/dL). The test strip method demonstrated good agreement with the standard hematology analyzer.

Conclusion: Hemoglobin test strips are an effective and practical tool for anemia screening in primary healthcare settings. Regular monitoring of hemoglobin levels and improved compliance with iron supplementation are essential strategies to reduce anemia prevalence among pregnant women, especially in late gestation.