Prevalence of anemia and associated risk factors among pregnant women in Sana’a, Yemen

Abstract

Objectives: Anemia in pregnancy is a serious public health problem in developing countries. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of anemia and associated risk factors among pregnant women in Sana’a, Yemen. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 260 pregnant women attended some government and private hospitals in Sana'a from November 2021 to January 2022. Sociodemographic data were collected using structured questionnaires Blood samples were collected and analyzed for hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations using a hematology Sysmex analyzer. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 26 software. Descriptive, bivariate chi-square and logistic regression analyses were done. Results and discussion: The prevalence of anemia among pregnant women was 44.2%. The prevalence of mild, moderate and severe anemias were 18.8%, 25.0%, and 0.4%., respectively. Moderate anemia was the most common anemia. Risk factors associated with anemia were low family monthly income, the presence of health problems, and lack of supplements taken. Conclusion: The prevalence of anemia was high and represents a severe problem among pregnant women. Identification of risk factors may help in the prevention and control of anemia.