An Observational Longitudinal Study on Prevalence and Prescribing Pattern of Anemia among Pregnant Women

Abstract

newline Anemia in pregnancy is a major public health challenge in India, with multifactorial causes and adverse outcomes for maternal and fetal health. During pregnancy, demand for iron increases and deficiencies in nutrients such as folate, Vitamin B12 significantly contribute to anemia development. newline newlineThis study conducted in Anand district of Gujarat with the aim to investigate prevalence, associated risk factors, prescribing patterns and outcomes of anemia in pregnancy. Study included pregnant women who attended antenatal clinics during their first trimester and provided consent. Women had HIV, cancer and severely anemic (Hb and#8804; were excluded from this study. newline newlineIn this observational, longitudinal study evaluate total 816 pregnant women of Anand district. Overall average prevalence of anemia during pregnancy was 64.42% with predominance of mild to moderate severity. There was partial improvement observed during second trimester, but slight reversal noted in third trimester. Iron deficiency anemia was most common morphological etiology. Low BMI and education level, rural residence, maternal age lt21 years and and#8805;3 gravida, independently associated with anemia. While no significant association of diet and socio-economic status with anemia. Prescribing trend involves use of iron and folic acid as universally prescribed, selective use of iron sucrose, ascorbic acid and multivitamin as well as calcium from second trimester. High adherence among women to prescribed medications independently predicted anemia correction. Adverse maternal and fetal outcomes were not significantly influenced by anemia severity, which reflects mitigating role of supplementation and adherence. newline newlineThis study highlights that, anemia in pregnancy remains highly prevalent despite universal supplementation. Strengthening antenatal care with early screening, nutritional support, adherence monitoring along with rational use of essential drugs, is crucial to achieve anemia reduction targets. newline