Title: The Prevalence of Iron Deficiency Anemia among Pregnant Women Attending Hospitals and Private Clinics in the Northwest of Libya
Authors: Abdu-Alhameed A. Ali Azzwali
Azab Elsayed Azab
Abdalrauf M.A.B.Alfourti
Volume: 7
Issue: 12
Pages: 149-155
Publication Date: 2023/12/28
Abstract:
Background: Normal pregnancy involves many changes in maternal physiology, including alteration the in the hematologic parameters. Anemia in pregnancy is the commonest medical disorder in pregnancy and constitutes a major public health issue throughout the world, particularly in developing countries where it is an important contributor to maternal morbidity and mortality. Objectives: The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of anemia among pregnant women who attended hospitals and private clinics in the North West of Libya and the age groups most affected by anemia. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in five primary health centers in the northwest of Libya between May 2022 and November 2022. A sample size of 100 pregnant women was included in this study. A multistage sampling technique was adopted to select the pregnant woman. The pregnant woman was examined by the OBG consultant, and the data about age, residence, chronic diseases, education, period of pregnancy, and tea or coffee drinking were collected in a pretested and semi-structured questionnaire. The hemoglobin level and MCV of the pregnant women were measured. All data obtained were calculated and analyzed by using Microsoft Office Excel 2010. Results: The highest percentage of pregnant women was from Zawia city (44%) while the lowest percentage was from Ajelat city (9%). 67% of pregnant women had a decrease in levels of hemoglobin, serum iron concentration, and MCV. The highest percentage of anemic pregnant women (31%) was in the age group 17-26 years, while the least affected (12%) was in the age group 37-46 years. Women in the third trimester of pregnancy showed a lower level of mean hemoglobin concentration when compared with the other trimesters. Most anemic pregnant women suffered from mild anemia (66.6%) when compared with moderate and severe anemia. 88% of anemic patients were educated and 56% suffered from bleeding, whereas 60% always drank coffee or tea after a meal. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the prevalence of anemia, probably IDA, was higher among pregnant women in the northwest of Libya which is more pronounced in the age group 17-26 years, especially in the third trimester of pregnancy. So, Women at this age should manage their iron and ferritin levels, especially pregnant women, which should be making more attention and have regular medical checkups. In addition, folic acid and iron supplements should be taken regularly. Young pregnant women should gain more knowledge about pregnancy and its requirements. Also, pregnant women must be advised for monitoring the hematological parameters during different periods of pregnancy and urgent intervention to prevent the occurrence of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes.