Dietary and obstetric correlates of anaemia among pregnant women: a cross-sectional study from the Wa municipality, Ghana

Abstract

Introduction/Aims Anaemia is the most severe pregnancy-related hematological condition globally and affects approximately 32.4 million pregnant women. This study's aim was to identify factors influencing anaemia in pregnancy at 36 weeks in the Wa municipality. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 410 pregnant women. The participants' haemoglobin levels and obstetric variables were extracted from antenatal record books. Data were analysed using multivariate binary logistics regression analysis to determine risk factors associated with anaemia in pregnancy at 36 weeks. Results The prevalence of anaemia at 36 weeks was 81.5%. Predictors included no previous use of family planning methods, paragravidity, low dietary diversity and an average monthly income of <1000 Ghanaian Cedi. Conclusions The prevalence of anaemia at 36 weeks was high. Preventive interventions targeting preconception nutrition and promoting regular antenatal care visits throughout pregnancy are urgently required.