Anaemia in Pregnancy: Assessing the Role of Socio-demographic Factors

Abstract

In the world, more than half of pregnant women are anaemic. The burden of disease is heavy yet poorly estimated. Knowledge of the current situation in our environment is necessary. This knowledge will enhance early detection and timely management of anaemia in pregnancy. This was an analytical cross-sectional study that employed both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. The aim of the study was to determine the socio-demographic factors associated with anaemia among women of reproductive age attending antenatal clinics in Garissa County Referral Hospital. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and the Key Informant Interview Guide by two research assistants. Validity and reliability were ensured by pre-testing the questionnaires. A total of 366 out of 384 expected women were interviewed. Six Key Informant Interviews were also conducted. The Nursing officer-in-charge of maternal and child health Clinic, as well as five nurses attending to the antenatal clinic, were interviewed. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 20. Results are presented in tables, graphs, and charts. Pearson’s Correlation coefficient was applied to the linear relationship between variables. The prevalence of anaemia was found to be very high among the participants of the study (64%). The study established that that education, religion, and the number of deliveries are significant predictive factors for anaemia (P>0.05). The study recommends that the community through government agencies and non-governmental organization partners need to invest in educating the girl child beyond the primary level, special education campaigns on the nutritional requirements and the benefits of iron supplements issued at the health facilities targeting this group be developed and to empower women economically. Finally, the study recommends that the magnitude of the contribution of the various factors to the outcome variable being investigated. The direction of the relationship between the various factors and the outcome variable also to be investigated for this community.