Anaemia in Pregnancy: Prevalence and Associated Factors in Azare, North-East Nigeria

Aims: Anaemia in pregnancy is a common health problem in poor-resource countries like Nigeria and is associated with both maternal and perinatal complications. It is multifactorial in origin; the relative contribution of these factors may differ from one region to the other. Anaemia is a preventable condition through interventions that are potentially feasible and cost effective. The objective of this study was to determine the magnitude of anaemia in pregnancy and its associated factors In Azare, north-eastern Nigeria.

Study Design: Cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Federal Medical Centre, Azare Bauchi State, between January 2010 and June 2010.

Methodology: Four hundred women who presented to the antenatal clinic for their booking visit were studied. Anaemia was defined as a haematocrit of 33%. Demographic and obstetric characteristics as well as blood, urine and stool samples were taken from the enrolled participants. Estimation of haematocrit, malaria parasite, urine microscopy and stool microscopy were done. The data was analysed with Epi info 3.3.4. (CDC Atlanta).

Results: Prevalence of anaemia was 71.3% and severe anaemia was 1.4%. The majority (79%) of the women booked in the second trimester. Multiple logistic regression model revealed malaria parasitaemia (AOR 5.45CI 2.59-11.45), low socioeconomic status (AOR 4.90 CI 2.09-11.49) and bacteriuria (AOR 4.74CI 1.99-11.32) as significant associated factors of anaemia in pregnancy.

Conclusion: The prevalence of anaemia in pregnancy in this community is high and it is an established problem at booking visit. Girl-child education, economic empowerment of women, antenatal care, treatment of infestations and provision of safe water supply should be promoted.