Iron Supplementation Research Articles

Anemia is common among patients with gynecologic cancers receiving systemic treatment and is associated with adverse outcomes. We describe a quality-improvement initiative designed to improve screening and treatment for nutritional causes of anemia in this population, and we assess the effect of this intervention on hemoglobin levels and blood transfusions. We implemented a quality-improvement intervention that automatized regular laboratory evaluation for nutritional causes of anemia in patients with gynecologic malignancies receiving systemic treatment who had hemoglobin levels below 12 g/dL. Patients with nutritional deficiencies were treated with intravenous iron or oral vitamin B12. We evaluated the association of the intervention and change in hemoglobin levels over three cycles of treatment (delta hemoglobin), along with the rate of blood transfusion. Thirty patients with hemoglobin levels below 12 g/dL were administered a survey regarding anemia, fatigue, and the acceptability of the intervention. The overall rates of iron and vitamin B12 deficiency were 54.2% and 8.1%, respectively. The control period included 117 patients, and the intervention period included 101 patients. Our quality-improvement process increased the rate of evaluation for iron and vitamin B12 deficiency in patients with anemia from 23.1% and 20.5%, respectively, to more than 90%. When controlling for relevant demographic and cancer-related characteristics, the delta hemoglobin was 0.45 g/dL higher in patients treated after the intervention when compared with patients treated before the intervention. In patients with hemoglobin levels below 11 g/dL, the delta hemoglobin was 0.91 g/dL higher after the intervention. There was no significant difference in the rate of blood transfusion. Patients with anemia who were surveyed were concerned about fatigue and overall accepting of the intervention. Using medical record treatment plans to send reflex anemia evaluation tests was effective at increasing rates of screening for nutritional deficiencies. Proactively addressing nutritional causes of anemia was associated with maintenance of higher hemoglobin levels in patients with gynecologic cancer receiving systemic treatment.

Pregnancy entails specific nutritional needs, yet dietary recommendations are often perceived as overly restrictive. In most cases, a varied and minimally processed diet is sufficient to meet energy, protein, and micronutrient requirements. Targeted supplementation (iron, folic acid, vitamin D, calcium, iodine) is only necessary in certain situations. Particular attention is required for women on specific diets (such as vegan, paleo, or ketogenic), which may necessitate closer monitoring. In Switzerland, the risk of foodborne infections is low and can be effectively managed with basic hygiene and food safety practices. A pragmatic, evidence-based approach helps reassure patients while safeguarding both maternal and fetal health, promoting a more peaceful pregnancy experience.

Introduction: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a common condition in adults, particularly affecting women of childbearing age. It is the leading cause of anemia worldwide and represents a major public health concern. Purpose of the study: analyze the clinical and etiological profile of iron deficiency anemia in an internal medicine department. Materials and Methods. This was a retrospective study conducted over a 4-year period (January 2021 to December 2024) at the OUED-EDDAHAB military hospital in Agadir. Results: Our study included 151 cases. The mean patient age was 35.2 years, with a male-to-female (M/F) ratio of 0.07. Women of reproductive age (14–50 years) were the most affected group. The mean hemoglobin level was 8.3 g/dL. Gynecological blood loss and malabsorption syndromes were the primary etiological mechanisms. However, digestive disorders were the leading cause of IDA in our series. Among the studied cases, we identified: 51 cases of gynecological bleeding (33.8%), 41 cases of impaired absorption (27.2%), 26 cases of gastrointestinal bleeding (17.2%), 9 cases of dietary deficiency (6%), 5 cases of PICA syndrome (3.3%), and 18 cases of undetermined origin (11.9%). Injectable iron therapy played a significant role in management in our setting, being prescribed in 56.3% of cases. Conclusion: The causes of IDA in adults are multifactorial, involving several mechanisms. Gastrointestinal disorders were the most frequent in our series, consistent with literature data. For blood loss, gynecological causes predominated. The diagnostic approach to IDA is guided by clinical findings, and treatment relies on iron supplementation alongside etiological management.

Synthesis and functional analysis of polysaccharide-Fe (III) complexes from Lilium davidii var. willmottiae: a step toward bioavailable iron supplements

BackgroundWhile intravenous iron improves outcomes in anaemic surgical patients, the impact of iron deficiency (ID) and its treatment in non-anaemic patients remains unclear.MethodsIn this single-centre retrospective analysis, non-anaemic ID patients (age ≥ 18 years) undergoing major cardiac surgery at the University Hospital Frankfurt were included. Primary endpoints were red blood cell (RBC) transfusion rate and use of RBC units. Secondary endpoints were increase in haemoglobin levels and postoperative outcome (mortality, length of stay, mechanical ventilation, laboratory values). Patients were assigned to the following groups: No-Iron (no anaemia, ID, and no iron supplementation) and Iron (anaemia, ID, and iron supplementation).ResultsA total of 3605 patients were screened, of whom 2345 were non-anaemic. Six hundred ninety-eight non-anaemic ID patients were included in the analysis, of whom 90 received intravenous iron supplementation. The overall RBC transfusion rate (43.6% [95% CI: 39.6–47.6] versus 50.0% [95% CI: 39.9–60.1]) and number of transfused blood units (2.0 [IQR: 1.0; 4.0] versus 2.0 [IQR: 1.0; 4.0]) were similar between patients of the No-Iron and Iron groups. Hospital length of stay, mortality, and postoperative complications were similar in both groups. When applying stricter cutoff values to define ID (ferritin < 30 μg/l), a trend toward reduced transfusion rates was observed: total RBC transfusion rate was 50.0% (95% CI: 34.9–65.2) in the No-Iron group and 42.9% (95% CI: 26.8–60.5) in the Iron group. In the case of short-term (1 day prior to surgery) iron supplementation, RBC unit utilisation and postoperative outcomes were comparable between the two groups.ConclusionIn non-anaemic cardiac surgery patients, (short-term) preoperative intravenous iron supplementation showed no significant impact on RBC transfusion rate, haemoglobin levels, or postoperative outcomes. However, a stricter definition of ID revealed a trend toward reduced transfusion rates.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13741-025-00596-8.

Background: Adherence to blood-boosting tablet consumption among adolescent girls is vital for preventing anemia and maintaining optimal hemoglobin levels to support overall health. Objective: This study aimed to examine the relationship between adherence to blood-boosting tablet consumption and anemia incidence among adolescent girls. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted among 36 randomly selected grade VII students at SMPN 16 Sukabumi City, using the MMAS-8 questionnaire for adherence and the Homovue tool for hemoglobin measurement, analyzed with the Kendall tau test. Results: The findings revealed a significant relationship between adherence and anemia incidence, with a p-value of 0.002 (&lt;0.05). Students with low adherence showed a higher prevalence of anemia, while those with moderate to high adherence maintained normal hemoglobin levels. The results also indicated that knowledge, motivation, and family support influenced adherence behavior. These findings confirm that consistent consumption of blood-boosting tablets effectively reduces anemia risk among adolescents. Conclusion: There is a significant correlation between adherence to blood-boosting tablet intake and anemia prevention, highlighting the importance of continuous education, motivation, and parental involvement to improve adolescent health outcomes.

Frogeye Leaf Spot disease, caused by a fungus Cercospora sojina, is a serious disease affecting soybean production. Its control is challenged by resistance to Quinone outside Inhibitor (QoI) fungicides, but plant antifungal peptides with multi-faceted modes of action (MoA) offer a promising alternative. Here, we showed that chickpea nodule-specific cysteine-rich peptide, NCR13_Peptide Folding Variant1 (NCR13_PFV1), exhibited antifungal activity against QoI-sensitive and -resistant field isolates of C. sojina at nanomolar concentrations representing the first antifungal NCR peptide reported effective against C. sojina. Spray-application of this peptide showed no phytotoxicity and effectively protected soybean against FLS. When combined with the QoI fungicide azoxystrobin, NCR13_PFV1 provided additive control of FLS. NCR13_PFV1 disrupted plasma membrane, induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and was rapidly internalized, localizing in the nucleus. It bound to fungal ribosomal RNA and inhibited protein translation. RNA-seq studies revealed the upregulation of several genes encoding heme binding proteins in peptide-challenged C. sojina. Notably, iron supplementation in the growth medium reduced the peptide-induced ROS and antifungal activity, revealing the importance of iron homeostasis in protection or recovery of C. sojina from oxidative stress. Overall, NCR13_PFV1 with its multi-faceted MoA holds potential as a bio-fungicide for FLS control, complementing QoI fungicides and overcoming resistance in C. sojina.

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is the most common nutritional deficiency in the world, particularly affecting children and women. The first-line treatment for IDA is oral iron supplementation, preferred for its cost-effectiveness and convenience of administration but is often accompanied by side effects like oxidative stress, infections, and low-solubility/precipitation. This study explores the use of ferritins-self-assembled nanocage proteins serving as soluble cellular-iron reservoirs-as a safer alternative for oral iron intervention. Ideal oral iron supplements must withstand gastric conditions, not trigger oxidative stress, and reach the absorption site intact. DNA protection assays and microbial growth studies demonstrate the antioxidative properties of ferritin, contrary to ferrous salts, underscoring its potential as a safer iron supplement. While ferritin shows commendable gastric tolerance, prolonged exposure can hamper its structural integrity/mineral retention. To further enhance its stability, ferritin is fabricated with gelatins, which preserved its structure/iron content under simulated gastric conditions. The combination of inherent antioxidant and controlled iron release properties of ferritin with gelatin's protective effect could help overcome the limitations of the commercial supplements. The findings of this study could pave the way for the development of "gelatin-coated iron-loaded ferritin"-based oral formulations as a safer option for IDA management.

Introduction: Distal Renal Tubular Acidosis (dRTA), or Type 1 RTA, is a rare disorder characterized by the failure of alpha-intercalated cells in the distal nephron to excrete hydrogen ions. This leads to a normal anion gap metabolic acidosis, hypokalemia, hypercalciuria, and persistently alkaline urine. Complications include nephrocalcinosis, growth retardation, and skeletal abnormalities. Hereditary forms, often involving mutations in genes like SLC4A4, typically present in early life and may include systemic features such as sensorineural hearing loss. The present case indeed reports and summarizes both clinical symptoms and diagnosis, long-term outcomes, genetic inheritance, epidemiology and current treatment options, with the aim of shedding more light onto this rare disorder, with a specific focus on the diagnostic challenges posed by a delayed presentation and the importance of genetic evaluation. Case Presentation: We report a 27-year-old female with progressive lower limb weakness and chronic muscle cramps. She had a longstanding history of renal calculi since adolescence and marked growth delay. Laboratory tests revealed normal anion gap metabolic acidosis, urinary pH &gt;7.0, hypokalemia, hypophosphatemia, and vitamin D deficiency. Imaging showed bilateral nephrocalcinosis. Genetic testing identified a pathogenic SLC4A4 mutation, confirming inherited dRTA. Treatment with potassium citrate, sodium bicarbonate, vitamin D, calcium, and iron supplementation led to significant clinical improvement. Discussion: This case highlights the diagnostic challenges of hereditary dRTA and its systemic burden. Nephrolithiasis, short stature, and persistent metabolic acidosis should prompt consideration of RTA. Although SLC4A4 is commonly linked with proximal defects, its mutation can present with distal tubular dysfunction, emphasizing the role of genetic analysis. Conclusion: Hereditary dRTA is a rare but treatable condition. Early diagnosis and lifelong alkali therapy can significantly reduce complications, including chronic kidney disease and skeletal deformities.This case reinforces the need for heightened awareness among clinicians to consider dRTA in patients presenting with chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, short stature, and recurrent nephrolithiasis. Furthermore, it underscores the value of genetic evaluation in uncovering the precise etiology, allowing for tailored management and genetic counseling.

BackgroundAnaemia in pregnancy often reflects inadequate nutrition and is linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of anaemia in pregnancy and the related contributing factors in the Vhembe District.MethodsA descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among women attending antenatal services from April to June 2021. A total of 419 pregnant women were sampled, with data gathered from their maternity case files and a short questionnaire on medication use.ResultsThe prevalence of anaemia in pregnancy in Vhembe District was 32.2%. Of those with anaemia, 58.7% were mild, 38.4% were moderate and 2.9% were severe. Adherence to prescribed oral supplements was 96.5% for iron and 97.3% for folic acid. Reported stock out for iron and folic acid supplements was 27.2% and 30.5% respectively. The mean age of the sample was 26.7 years (SD6.2) while the median gestational age was 30 weeks (IQR 21 to 38). The median gestational age at booking was 16 weeks (IQR 10 to 21) and median parity was one child (IQR 0 to 2). Majority of pregnant women with anaemia had food insecurity.ConclusionThe prevalence of anaemia in pregnancy in the Vhembe District represents a moderate public health concern. This study adds to the expanding body of knowledge on maternal health by emphasizing food insecurity as a key contributing factor to anaemia in pregnancy.ContributionThe findings provide locally relevant data that can inform targeted interventions, including integrated food and nutrition support programs within antenatal care services.

Haemophilia A and B are hereditary bleeding disorders that require multidisciplinary perioperative management. Data on orthopaedic surgery outcomes with extended-half-life (EHL) recombinant Fc-fusion factor VIII (rFVIIIFc) and factor IX (rFIXFc) products remain limited. To evaluate the efficacy of EHL rFVIIIFc or rFIXFc in major orthopaedic surgery, focusing on haemostasis, safety and factor consumption. This prospective study involved persons with haemophilia A or B treated with rFVIIIFc or rFIXFc undergoing orthopaedic surgery. Twenty major orthopaedic surgeries (2018-2023) were included in 19 persons with severe or moderate haemophilia A (n=14) or B (n=5), median age 46 years (range 26-60). Procedures included arthroplasty, arthrodesis, arthroscopic synovectomy, prosthetic revision of the knee or ankle, and removal of a femur fracture fixation device. Median hospital stay was 7 days (range 2-18). Median cumulative factor consumption was 300 and 388IU/kg for haemophilia A and B, respectively. Haemostatic efficacy was rated as 'good' in 95% (n=18) of cases, 'poor' in 5% (n=1), and not documented in one case. Median haemoglobin (Hb) change was -2.0g/dL (range -4.6 to +0.5); no transfusions were required. Complications were reported in 45% (n=9) of cases (anaemia 40%; blood loss 5%) and managed with oral supplementation of iron and folates. No adverse events related to rFVIIIFc or rFIXFc administration were observed. RFVIIIFc and rFIXFc provide effective haemostasis during orthopaedic surgery in patients with haemophilia A and B, with a favourable safety profile. Further multicentre studies are warranted to confirm these results and refine perioperative management guidelines.

Abstract Piglets have a high requirement for iron due to their rapid growth rates and low body iron stores; moreover, intensive production conditions restrict access to environmental sources of iron, such as soil. The low iron content of sow colostrum and milk, combined with the partitioning of limited nutrients among many piglets in a litter, results in inadequate piglet iron intake, predisposing them to iron-deficient anemia (IDA) during lactation and weaning. Prevalent IDA results in reduced post-weaning growth and reduced hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations. To combat this, indoor-reared piglets are given an injectable iron supplement shortly after birth to maintain body iron stores until weaning, when feed containing dietary iron is consumed. Due to continued selection for growth rates and litter sizes, this single injection is now considered inadequate to meet iron requirements. It was hypothesized that an additional iron injection, irrespective of timing, would improve Hb concentrations and growth performance, with a day 7 injection resulting in higher Hb and growth at weaning and a weaning injection increasing Hb and performance in pigs later in the nursery period. A total of 440 mixed sex pigs were used in this experiment in three treatment groups: control: only receiving iron dextran two days after birth; day 7: receiving iron injections at days two and seven after birth; Weaning iron: receiving iron dextran injections on day two and at weaning (20.1 days). Hb concentrations were significantly (P &amp;lt; 0.001) improved in the day 7 treatment for 18 days after weaning. Pigs in the control and weaning iron groups had a treatment mean of 9.9g/dL ± 0.32 and 9.7g/dL ± 0.32, respectively, indicating sub-clinical anemia, compared to the day 7 group with a treatment mean of 12.2g/dL ± 0.32, indicating healthy Hb concentrations. Average daily gain tended (P = 0.08) to be higher in the weaning iron treatment group during the second week of the experiment compared to the control and day 7 groups. Pig removals were also significantly (P &amp;lt; 0.001) reduced in the weaning treatment group. Plasma hepcidin anti-microbial peptide, was elevated in the weaning iron group after injection, possibly impairing enteric iron absorption. An additional injection at weaning showed potential for improved growth in the post-weaning period and has practical advantages for producers.

BackgroundIron deficiency anemia is a prevalent condition during pregnancy, particularly in resource-limited areas, and is associated with negative fetal and maternal outcomes. A key strategy to prevent anemia during pregnancy involves ensuring adequate iron and folic acid supplementation (IFAS), diversifying the diet, deworming and infections control, such as malaria. This study aimed to assess the extent to which pregnant women at rural health facilities adhere to IFAS and to identify the factors contributing to this adherence.MethodsA multi-center cross-sectional study was conducted from February to June 2024 at rural health facilities in Ethiopia. Systematic random sampling was used to recruit study participants, and data were collected through semi-structured questionnaires, client interviews, and document reviews. The data were entered into Epi-Data 4 and then exported to STATA-16 for analysis. To explore the association between outcome and independent variables, both bi-variable and multivariable logistic regression models were applied. After performing multivariable regression, variables with a p-value < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.ResultsFour hundred and six pregnant women were study participants. The mean age of the pregnant women was 27.9 years (SD ± 7.1). Adherence to IFAS was 45.1% [95% CI: 40.3–49.9%]. Counseling on the importance of IFAS (AOR = 2.29; 95% CI: 1.21–4.34), number of antenatal care (ANC) contacts (AOR = 3.50; 95% CI: 1.54–7.92), good knowledge of IFAS (AOR = 4.22; 95% CI: 2.43–7.31), and anemia (AOR = 3.07; 95% CI: 1.36–6.89) were associated factors.ConclusionsThe adherence of pregnant women to IFAS was very low compared to the world health organization recommendation (45% vs. > 80%). Counseling regarding the importance of IFAS, the number of ANC contacts, good knowledge of IFAS, and anemia status were independent predictors. Creating awareness about IFAS, providing counseling during ANC contacts, and strengthening the monitoring and evaluation system are all critically important.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12884-025-08119-5.

Iron is an essential trace element that is important for the development, structure, and functioning of the brain. Iron has been both favorably and unfavorably implicated in neuropsychiatric disorders. For example, iron adequacy in pregnancy and early childhood has been suggested to reduce the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders and schizophrenia, but iron mechanisms have been implicated in neurodegenerative disorders, multiple sclerosis, and stroke. Supplemental iron may be indicated to treat restless legs syndrome, akathisia, and pica, but more commonly to treat iron deficiency associated with poor nutrition in major mental illness. Supplemental iron is commonly orally administered but is poorly absorbed by this route. It is therefore necessary to know what improves and what impairs iron absorption. This article explains that, for best absorption, oral iron supplements are ideally dosed as ferrous salts. The dose should be administered in the morning, on a fasting stomach, along with about 100 mg of vitamin C in the form of a tablet, or with a glass of orange or other citrus juice. If neither vitamin C nor citrus juice is available, as a poorer option, iron should be dosed with plain water. Absorption is markedly reduced if iron is administered in the afternoon, or with food such as cereals and other grains, or with beverages such as milk, tea, and coffee. Calcium supplements, antacids, H2 inhibitors, and proton pump inhibitors also reduce the absorption of orally administered iron. Some data suggest that alternate day dosing improves fractional iron absorption as well as reduces adverse effects of treatment. Finally, to reduce the risk of pill esophagitis, iron should be dosed with a full glass of liquid, and the patient should not recline or lie down for at least the next 30-60 min.

The treatment of heart failure varies depending on left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and poses asignificant clinical challenge in patients with reduced (HFrEF), mildly reduced (HFmrEF), or preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). In HFrEF/HFmrEF, the diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms such as dyspnea or peripheral edema, as well as an LVEF < 50%. Treatment primarily relies on renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors (preferably angiotensin receptor-neprilysin-inhibitors, ARNIs), beta-blockers, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs), and sodium-glucose co-transporter 2inhibitors (SGLT2i). These agents have aclassI recommendation and significantly reduce both mortality and hospitalization rates. Rapid and comprehensive implementation of this therapeutic strategy substantially improves prognosis. Additional agents such as ivabradine or vericiguat can be considered. With the recent publication of the DIGIT-HF study, evidence now also supports the use of digitoxin in advanced HFrEF to further reduce mortality and hospitalizations. Iron deficiency is common in HFrEF and is associated with worse outcomes. Intravenous iron supplementation improves exercise capacity and reduces the risk of hospitalization especially after adecompensation. In patients with HFpEF, treatment focuses on symptomatic relief and rigorous management of comorbidities. Diuretics for volume overload have aclassI recommendation, as they effectively alleviate symptoms. SGLT2i also play akey role in HFpEF and are recommended with classI evidence in current guidelines. FINEARTS-HF recently showed promising results for the non-steroidal MRA finerenone, which reduces cardiovascular death/hospitalizations. Furthermore, metabolically targeted therapies such as GLP‑1 receptor agonists are gaining importance in obese HFpEF patients, as they have been shown to improve quality of life and reduce heart failure-related events.

Background: Adolescent girls are particularly vulnerable to iron-deficiency anemia due to increased nutritional demands during growth, regular iron loss through menstruation, and inadequate dietary intake. This condition negatively affects concentration, physical development, and overall productivity. Objective: This community engagement initiative aimed to improve adolescents’ knowledge and awareness of anemia prevention through school-based health education and iron supplementation. Methods: A school-based health promotion activity was conducted on June 17, 2025, at SMPN 11 Samarinda, involving 15 participants. The intervention included a pre-test, interactive educational session, post-test, and distribution of iron supplement tablets. Evaluation was carried out using the Wilcoxon test and participatory observation. Results: The intervention led to a statistically significant improvement in participants’ knowledge of anemia prevention (Z = -3.457; p &lt; 0.001), with median scores increasing from 7 to 9 and interquartile range narrowing from 2 to 1, indicating more consistent understanding. Conclusion: This school-based educational initiative effectively enhanced health literacy among adolescent girls regarding anemia prevention and supports broader promotive-preventive health strategies aligned with national and global health agendas.

BackgroundAnaemia and iron deficiency are a global healthcare burden affecting almost 25% of the population. Many anaemia cases are caused by depletion of iron stores which can be treated by oral iron supplementation. However, anaemia may also result from functional iron deficiency, where chronic inflammation prevents utilisation of stored iron. Anaemia and iron deficiency are rarely profiled in general populations; however, they can have significant healthcare implications.MethodsData from n = 33,029 serum samples were retrospectively analysed from individuals undertaking private health checks within Randox Health (UK). Samples were measured to detect anaemia, iron and vitamin deficiencies, based on established guidelines.ResultsThe overall prevalence of anaemia in the study was 6.0% (n = 1,917/31,803). The prevalence of anaemia was higher in females, with almost 1 in 10 (9.9%; n = 1,558/15,715) classified as anaemic; anaemia prevalence was highest in females aged 18–50 years. Similarly, absolute iron deficiency was also higher in females, with almost 1 in 3 (31.6%; n = 4,633/14,677) impacted. Functional iron deficiency was high in the study individuals across all age groups and sexes.ConclusionThe study identified that anaemia and iron deficiency are common underlying conditions in a health-conscious UK population. Despite the high prevalence of anaemia and iron deficiency burden on females of menstruating age, demonstrated in this study, and reported in the literature, screening for these conditions is not widespread. Should there be a national screening programme for anaemia and iron deficiency in females?

BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of third-trimester maternal iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia on neonatal cord-blood hemoglobin (Hgb), and serum ferritin levels.MethodsPregnant women who gave birth between 370/7 and 406/7 weeks of gestation, and their neonates were included. Maternal hemoglobin and ferritin levels were assessed. They were divided into two groups based on Hgb values as anemic and non-anemic. Furthermore, the anemic group was classified as mild, moderate, and severe anemia. Maternal and cord Hgb, hematocrit and ferritin levels were compared between groups. The study population was stratified into two groups according to iron supplementation status.ResultsAmong 627 women included, 226(36%) were diagnosed as anemic, of which 130(57.5%) had mild, 94(41.6%) moderate, and 2(0.9%) severe anemia. Mean maternal Hb levels were 9.9±0.9 g/dl and 12.1±0.9 g/dl in the anemic and non-anemic groups, respectively. The mean maternal serum ferritin of anemic and non-anemic mothers were 11.7 ng/ml and 15.8 ng/ml, respectively (p < 0.001). The mean cord-blood serum ferritin of neonates born from anemic and non-anemic mothers was 113±68.8 ng/ml and 134±95.0 ng/ml, respectively (p = 0.012). Cord-blood Hb levels of neonates born from anemic and non-anemic mothers were 15.1±1.8 g/dl and 15.5±2.0 g/dl, respectively (p = 0.006). The 5th, 25th, 50th, 75th, and 95th percentiles of cord blood serum ferritin concentrations were 32.6, 72.2, 107.5, 154.1, and 272.6 ng/ml, respectively. Among neonates born from mild, moderate, and severe anemic mothers, there was no significant difference regarding cord-blood serum ferritin and blood count parameters (p > 0.05). Cord-blood serum ferritin concentrations were found to be 119 ± 85.7 ng/ml and 136.4 ± 87.9 ng/ml in the low and normal maternal serum ferritin groups, respectively (p = 0.015).ConclusionMaternal anemia is common and associated with lower neonatal cord blood hemoglobin and ferritin levels. However, lack of iron supplementation during pregnancy, rather than anemia itself, was the strongest independent predictor of neonatal anemia. These findings highlight the importance of routine antenatal iron supplementation to support fetal iron status and improve perinatal outcomes. Further randomized controlled trials are needed to evaluate the effects of maternal iron supplementation on fetal iron stores and long-term outcomes.

Anemia in pregnancy is a public health concern globally with the highest prevalence observed in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). Tanzania is no exception. Iron and folic acid supplements (IFAS) intake is a proven intervention recommended to prevent anemia in pregnancy. Despite interventions in Tanzania, IFAS uptake has remained low due to reasons that are not well documented. This study aimed to assess the uptake and determinants of IFAS during pregnancy in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted to assess levels and determinants of IFAS uptake during pregnancy in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Data was collected among 428 women post-delivery in postnatal wards of Temeke, Mwananyamala, and Amana regional referral hospitals. Descriptive analyses were conducted to determine levels and characteristics of IFAS uptake, whereas bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to examine determinants of uptake using SPSS version 23. Among the study participants, only 136 (31.8%) pregnant women who attended antenatal care (ANC) at referral hospitals had adequate IFAS uptake. Primiparous women were 74% less likely to achieve adequate IFAS uptake compared to multiparous women (aOR=0.26; 95% CI: 0.10 - 0.67). Women who attended five or more ANC visits (aOR=11.7; 95%CI: 1.30 - 63.66) and those from wealthier households (aOR=11.68; 95% CI: 2.91 - 89.57) were about 12 times more likely to achieve adequate IFAS uptake. Similarly, women from food-secure households had a ninefold higher likelihood of adequate uptake compared to those from severely food-insecure households (aOR=9.21; 95% CI: 1.82 - 10.33). Only one in three pregnant women attending regional referral hospitals in Dar es Salaam achieved adequate IFAS uptake to prevent anemia. Targeted interventions are urgently needed, particularly among pregnant women with higher parity, fewer ANC visits, and those facing economic hardship, food insecurity, and challenging family support.

Anemia in pregnancy is a public health concern globally with the highest prevalence observed in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). Tanzania is no exception. Iron and folic acid supplements (IFAS) intake is a proven intervention recommended to prevent anemia in pregnancy. Despite interventions in Tanzania, IFAS uptake has remained low due to reasons that are not well documented. This study aimed to assess the uptake and determinants of IFAS during pregnancy in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted to assess levels and determinants of IFAS uptake during pregnancy in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Data was collected among 428 women post-delivery in postnatal wards of Temeke, Mwananyamala, and Amana regional referral hospitals. Descriptive analyses were conducted to determine levels and characteristics of IFAS uptake, whereas bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to examine determinants of uptake using SPSS version 23. Among the study participants, only 136 (31.8%) pregnant women who attended antenatal care (ANC) at referral hospitals had adequate IFAS uptake. Primiparous women were 74% less likely to achieve adequate IFAS uptake compared to multiparous women (aOR=0.26; 95% CI: 0.10 – 0.67). Women who attended five or more ANC visits (aOR=11.7; 95%CI: 1.30 – 63.66) and those from wealthier households (aOR=11.68; 95% CI: 2.91 – 89.57) were about 12 times more likely to achieve adequate IFAS uptake. Similarly, women from food-secure households had a ninefold higher likelihood of adequate uptake compared to those from severely food-insecure households (aOR=9.21; 95% CI: 1.82 – 10.33). Only one in three pregnant women attending regional referral hospitals in Dar es Salaam achieved adequate IFAS uptake to prevent anemia. Targeted interventions are urgently needed, particularly among pregnant women with higher parity, fewer ANC visits, and those facing economic hardship, food insecurity, and challenging family support.