Prevalence and Determinants of Moderate-to-Severe Anaemia in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy: A Multicentre Cross-Sectional Study in Lagos, Nigeria

Abstract

Abstract Background The high burden of anaemia during pregnancy underscores the urgent need to gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors contributing to its widespread occurrence. Objectives Our study assessed the prevalence of moderate-to-severe anaemia (MSA) in late pregnancy (28 to 36 weeks) and investigated the key determinants driving this prevalence among women in Lagos, Nigeria. Methods We conducted a secondary data analysis involving 1216 women enrolled in the Predict-PPH study between January and March 2023. We employed a multivariate binary logistic regression model with a backward stepwise selection approach to identify significant predictors of MSA. Results The study revealed a 14.5% prevalence of MSA during pregnancy. Independent predictors of MSA included having given birth to two or more children (adjusted odds ratio = 1.46, 95% confidence interval: 1.03–2.07), having a maternal body mass index (BMI) of 28 kg/m2 or higher (adjusted odds ratio = 1.84, 95% confidence interval: 1.29–2.61), having less than tertiary education (adjusted odds ratio = 1.51, 95% confidence interval: 1.08–2.11), and being unemployed (adjusted odds ratio = 1.97, 95% confidence interval: 1.19–3.26). Conclusion Regular antenatal care is paramount, especially for pregnant women with higher parities and elevated BMI, as it allows for monitoring of their haemoglobin status and nutritional needs. Moreover, addressing the connection between low education, unemployment, poverty, and anaemia necessitates the implementation of comprehensive strategies that empower women in terms of education and economic status to help break the cycle of poverty and enhance the overall well-being of individuals and communities, ultimately reducing the prevalence of anaemia and associated health issues in pregnancy.