| Autor: |
Owusu-Sarpong, Akosua Agyeiwaa, Anane, Agnes Achiamaa, Sarpong, Godfred Kwabena, Asante Kusi, Rita Agyekumwah, Djan, Richardson Ohene, Adu-Gyamfi, Rhoda, Adjin-Tettey, Philip, Tetteh, Ato Kwamena |
| Zdroj: |
African Journal of Midwifery and Women's Health; December 2024, Vol. 18 Issue: 4 p1-11, 11p |
| Abstrakt: |
Background/AimsIn Ghana, anaemia in pregnancy is a major public health problem. As part of the Central Regional Health Directorate's mandate to address determinants of anaemia among pregnant women, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of anaemia and factors that influence its occurrence in Central Region.MethodsThis cross-sectional study involved 391 pregnant women aged 15–45 years old at ≥36 weeks' gestation from 12 randomly selected district hospitals and polyclinics in the Central Region. Data on their anaemia status and sociodemographic characteristics were collected between May and June 2022. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were used to explore the relationship between anaemia and influencing factors.ResultsOverall, 47.1% of participants had anaemia, which was significantly associated with age (χ2=10.3, P=0.036). In multivariate analysis, pregnant women aged 21–25 years were significantly less likely (adjusted odds ratio=0.32, P=0.017) to experience anaemia compared to younger women.ConclusionsAnaemia among pregnant women in the Central Region of Ghana is high, and age is a significant influencing factor. Several steps can be taken to lower the prevalence of anaemia, beginning with continuous public education on the importance of early antenatal care and nutrition during pregnancy. Other behaviours that may improve haemoglobin concentration include abstaining from alcoholic beverages and traditional herbal medicines, eating nutritious meals, increasing prophylaxis against malaria and intestinal worms and ensuring HIV-infected women are taking antivirals.Implications for practiceThe high prevalence of anaemia poses a major public health challenge, necessitating urgent coordinated efforts and resource allocation. Collaborative initiatives across sectors are vital for enhancing access to iron-rich foods and health services. A strong data system is essential for informed policymaking and implementing evidence-based strategies. |
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