Factors influencing the prevalence of anaemia among Pregnant Women in western Uganda. A cross-sectional study at Kabale Regional Referral Hospital

Abstract

Anaemia is a global health problem affecting 1.62 billion people where by 41.8% (56 million people) of the general population are pregnant women. It’s more prevalent among pregnant women because during pregnancy, iron requirements increase much more significantly as compared to non-pregnant women. The aim of conducting this study was to determine the factors influencing the prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) services at Kabale Regional Referral Hospital (KRRH) in Kabale district. A hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted among pregnant mothers. Data was collected using a systematic random sampling technique. Blood samples were collected from 200 pregnant women and analyzed using a CBC analyzer sysmex Xs1000 to determine the Haemoglobin concentration. Interviews were conducted with mothers to determine factors influencing the prevalence of anaemia. Findings showed that the general prevalence of anaemia was 27% whereby 31% were mildly anaemic, 50% were moderately anaemic and 19% were severely anaemic. Concerning the socio-economic factors influencing the prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women, it was found out that the prevalence of anaemia was higher among participants who were peasants, rural dwellers, those having low education and low monthly income. The level of awareness about anaemia among pregnant women was 68% whereby the majority (25.5%) had heard it from ANC clinic. The overall prevalence of anaemia (27%) among pregnant women attending antenatal care services at Kabale Regional Referral Hospital in Kabale district was found to be a moderate health problem in the area of study.