Socio-demographic determinants associated with iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy in rural population of central India

Abstract

Worldwide Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) affects 25% of the population and in India it affects 80% of pregnant women. A prospective observational study was conducted to know the relationship between IDA and socio-demographic determinants in pregnancy. Pregnant women with singleton pregnancy with gestational age more than 20 weeks and IDA (Hb 10 gm %) were selected and studied for socio-economic and demographic parameters.15.02% rural women had severe anemia IDA as compare to women who did not show IDA. 60% anemic women belonged to the age group of 20-25 years and 20% illiterate women had severe anemia. Multigravida women were at more risk for IDA of which. 13.84% were severely anemic out of whom 65% were vegetarian. 19% were married before age of 20 years of which 26.31% had severe IDA. This study emphasize that demographic parmeters have a major role to play in development of IDA and that improvement in socioeconomic condition , educational status and living conditions can prevent IDA.