Nyandiva O, Yogas G, Chikomele JR and Mghanga FP
Introduction: In most developing countries, anemia is one of the most commonly encountered medical disorders during pregnancy and affects approximately two-thirds of the pregnant women. It is a cause of serious concern as, besides many other adverse effects on the mother and the fetus it contributes significantly high maternal morbidity and mortality and economic burden. Objectives: This study aimed at determining the prevalence, severity and determinants of anemia among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Masasi District, Mtwara, September 2017. Methodology: The study was conducted at Mkomaindo District Hospital, Masasi district, Mtwara region. It was a facility predicated cross-sectional descriptive study that involved 300 enceinte women attending antenatal clinics at Mkomaindo District Hospital culled by convenient non probability sampling method. Data was amassed by utilizing face-to face interview utilizing standardized open ended questionnaires and observation of the Reproductive and Child Health card number 1. Data analysis was done by using Statistical Program for Social Sciences version 20. Results: The study involved 300 women attending antenatal clinics at Mkomaindo hospital regardless of age and parity. In this study we have found that the majority of women were from 20-30 years age group. The total prevalence for anemia in pregnancy found was 46.3% that correlate with alternative studies conducted in African countries and specifically sub-Saharan Africa. Education status, iron, folic acid, anti-malaria and ant worms’ supplementation, meal type and frequency, gestation age and woman’s age were statistically significant independent predictors for maternal anemia among pregnant women in the study area. Conclusion: Anemia is a significant health problem among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in this southern part of the country. Recommendations: It is recommended that every women should have a well-balanced diet to increase iron and blood production, attend the antenatal clinics and take necessary measures to prevent malaria.
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