PREVALENCE OF ANEMIA AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN IN PRIMARY HEALTH CENTRE AT ANKALAGI: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY

Abstract

Introduction: Low level of haemoglobin during pregnancy has been associated with many adverse effects to both maternal & fetal outcomes like low birth weight, preterm, abortions, still born and many more. Since the study was not done regarding prevalence of anemia among pregnant women at PHC Ankalagi, Belagavi, the study was undertaken. Objective: To estimate the prevalence of anemia among pregnant women and to determine the anemic status based on maternal age group, BMI & parity index. Methodology: A retrospective study was done from 2017 April to May 2020 April for a period of three years at PHC, Ankalagi, Belagavi. Over 718 pregnant women were enrolled. Regular ANC was done. Data was collected on Maternal Age, Body mass Index (BMI), Number of parity and Socio-economic determinants. A hemoglobin level was done for all trimesters. Hemoglobin levels were estimated by Sahil's hemoglobinometer method. Results: Mean age was 18±39 yrs. Prevalence of anemia among pregnant women was 60.30%. Nearly 347(48.32%) were mild anemic (Hb: 9- 10.9g/L), 84(11.69%) were moderately anemic(Hb :7-8.9g/L) & 8(1.11%)were severe anemic (Hb :<7g/L). Increased anemic prevalence showed in the maternal age group between 31-35years (96%) and in group of underweight of about 84% and in the parity with gravid 6&7 (100%). Conclusion: High prevalence of anemia was found at PHC Ankalagi & more prevalent showed in the age group between 31-35years & with underweight category & with parity index 6&7 respectively, which is an indicator of poor nutritional status and health care utilisation. It is one of the preventable causes which can decrease the maternal & fetal mortality. Should reinforce the health education from adolescent girls, with regular antenatal check up and active participation of ASHA workers.