THE PREVALENCE OF ANAEMIA AND ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY CONDUCTED AT A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Abstract

Background

Anaemia during pregnancy is a significant public health concern, particularly in developing countries like India. Despite various national health programs aimed at reducing anaemia, the condition remains widespread, indicating a need for localized studies to understand region-specific prevalence and risk factors. This cross-sectional study aims to assess the prevalence of anaemia and identify associated risk factors among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in a tertiary care hospital in Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu.

Materials and Methods

This study was a hospital-based cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out at the antenatal clinic of a tertiary care hospital in Chengalpattu District. The study was conducted over a period of six months from June 2024 to November 2024. Pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic during the study period were included.

Results
The study included 110 pregnant women and assessed their anaemic status to find out prevalence.  Among them, 26% had mild anaemia, 71% had moderate anaemia, and 13% had severe anaemia.

Discussion
The high prevalence of anaemia underscores the need for targeted interventions, especially among women with lower socioeconomic status and inadequate dietary intake. Addressing nutritional deficiencies and improving antenatal care in rural areas could significantly reduce anemia burden. These findings highlight the importance of community-based strategies and policy reforms to enhance maternal health outcomes.

Conclusion

Anemia remains highly prevalent among pregnant women, driven by socioeconomic disparities, inadequate nutrition, and multiparity. Strengthening antenatal care services and implementing targeted nutritional interventions are crucial to improving maternal health outcomes in this population.