Sarcouncil Journal of Medical Series

Abstract: Anemia is a major cause of maternal mortality in Bangladesh. Anemia in pregnancy is associated with adverse consequences both for the mother and the fetus. Studies have shown that the adverse consequences of maternal anemia may affect not only the neonate and infant but also increase the risk of non-communicable diseases when the child grows into an adult and at risk of low birth weight in the next generation. The objective of this study is to know the factors associated with anemia among pregnant women in Mymensingh City, Bangladesh. The study design decided upon a cross sectional one with the sample size 200 and ability illicit to response regarding the main variables and the limitation of time and resources; mainly explaining the knowledge and practice about anemia in pregnant women. The result of the study revealed that majority 56.25% mother’s gestational age were 32-35 weeks, 25% were more than 35 weeks and 18.75% were 28-31 weeks of gestational age. Mean Hb level for anemic respondent is 10.17 (±0.77) and 12.01 (± 0.879) for non-anemic. 83% of respondent were mild anemic in 1st trimester. Majority 80% were mild anemic in 2nd trimester and it increased to 95% at 3rdtrimester. 28% were moderate anemic in 1st trimester. 62% were moderate anemic in 2nd trimester and it deceased to 60% at 3rd trimester. 30% were severe anemic in 1st trimester and it decreased to 16% at 2nd trimester and again increased 29% at 3rd trimester. Majority of respondents (61.25%) were in normal health, 22.5% were under weight and 15% were overweight. Only 1.25% were mild obese but no obese was found. 26% were anemic and 74% were non anemic belong to 18-23yrs aged group. 32% were anemic and 68% were non anemic belong to 24-28yrs aged group. 30% were anemic and 70% were non anemic belong to 32-35yrs aged group. The study revealed that higher percentage (29%) of participants were anemic in 3rd trimester during pregnancy period, although majority of them were in normal health. Anemic condition is higher in 18-23yrs aged group although most of the respondents were SSC level educated and majority of the respondents were service holder. The result also shows that most of the mothers had taken IFA tablet during pregnancy period.