The New Indian Journal of OBGYN 4(1)
Anaemia and its associated factors among pregnant women in rural area of North India
Akashdeep Singh Chauhan, Manoj Kumar Sharma, Hoshiar Singh Chauhan
ABSTRACT
Objective: The aim of the present study is to determine the prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women and its association across socio-demographic and other risk factors. Methodology: It was a cross-sectional study conducted in the Faridkot district of Punjab. A total of 594 pregnant women were enrolled by consecutive sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured interview schedule and haemoglobin estimation was done using Sahli’s method. Results: The prevalence of anaemia was found to be 89.7% (with 55.4% and 34.3% of pregnant women having moderate anaemia and mild degree of anaemia). No case of severe degree of anaemia was reported. Prevalence of anaemia was significantly (p < 0.05) higher among women belonging to the scheduled castes, middle income groups and those who went out in the fields for open defecation. Conclusion: In addition to preventive programs against anaemia, the study highlights the need for dietary counselling and nutritional education among the pregnant women as well as their family members.