PREVALENCE AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS OF ANEMIA AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN AGED BETWEEN 15 AND 49 YEARS ATTENDING ANTENATAL CARE SERVICES IN GAKENKE DISTRICT, RWANDA

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Background: Anemia in pregnancy is a significant public health issue, it causes 30% of newborn deaths, 25% of indirect maternal deaths in low-income countries.

Objectives: To determine the prevalence and associated factors of anemia among pregnant women aged between 15 and 49 years attending antenatal care services in Gakenke district.

Methods: The study used quantitative cross-sectional design, stratified random sampling and structured questionnaires for data collection. Hemoglobin was measured on-site using a portable HemoCue 201+ device, anemia was classified according to WHO criteria. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics summarized into categorical data with frequencies and percentages, continuous in mean and standard deviation, prevalence defined based on WHO cutoff, bivariate relationship was assessed using chi-square test with significance set at p-value less than 0.05, significant variable in bivariate were processed to multivariate analysis via  logistic regression and the degree of association was reported using the adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence interval.

Results: Study involved 383 women, the prevalence rate stood at 11.5%, factors associated with anemia were: living in households with more than four members, having gravidity of three or more, consuming fortified porridge. Women who did not handle or clean food before cooking were found to be exposed to anemia. The use of long-lasting insecticidal mosquito nets was associated with lower odds of anemia compared to non-users.

Conclusions: Prevalence was 11.5% indicating a mild public health concern, and factors a linked to distal, intermediate and proximal factors.