Iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia among pregnant women in Kuwait

Abstract

This cross‐sectional study investigated the prevalence of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia among pregnant women in Kuwait. It also examined the association of various factors with iron status. A total of 465 women, aged 18–47 years, of 4–39 weeks gestation attending maternity clinics in six governorates in Kuwait participated in the study during January–March, 2009. Socio‐demographic, pregnancy related and dietary information were collected. Blood hemoglobin (Hb) and serum ferritin (SF) concentrations were determined. The prevalence of anemia (Hb<11.0 g/dL) among the participants was 24.1% and 55% had depleted iron stores (SF<12.0 μg/dL). Of all anemic subjects, 73% had iron deficiency anemia (Hb<11.0 g/dL and SF <12.0 μg/dL). There was a significant positive association between Hb and SF levels (r=0.245; p=0.001). Significant positive correlations were observed between SF and education level of the participants, consumption frequency of white bread and meat sandwich, while there was a negative correlation with parity, gestational age and consumption frequency of brown bread, tea and coffee. In conclusion, iron deficiency is highly prevalent among Kuwaiti pregnant women, and nearly three‐fourths of the anemia can be explained by iron deficiency. Various factors including diet may contribute to the poor iron status of these women. Funded by Kuwait University, Research Grant No: WF01/08.