Factors influencing the occurrence of anaemia among pregnant women attending antenatal care at Iganga municipal health centre III - Iganga district - Uganda

Abstract

According to the Uganda Demographic Health Survey (UDHS 2011), it was estimated that 438 women die per 100,000 live births per year due to pregnancy related causes, given the high prevalence of maternal anemia especially during pregnancy and its effects on maternal mortality. It is highly likely that anemia significantly contributes to high maternal mortality (Stolsfuz, et al, 2004). The study was based on three objectives which were; Individual factors influencing the occurrence of anemia, socio-economic factors influencing the occurrence of anemia and health facility factors influencing the occurrence of anemia among pregnant women at IMHCIII Iganga District This was a cross-sectional study that explored the factors influencing the occurrence of anemia among pregnant women attending ANC at IMHC III- Iganga District. The study consisted of 80 women who had signs and symptoms of anemia and had consented to participate in the study. Simple random sampling was used and Microsoft Excel was used analyze findings and tabulate them for easy interpretation and completeness. Finding revealed that the majority of the mothers 48(60.0%) who were anemic were in trimester one, close child spacing and long distances to the health facility all contribute to anemia occurrence among pregnant women. Findings also revealed that the majority of the mothers who were divorced and also those using local herbs instead of folic acid / iron during pregnancy were anemic. In conclusion the study concludes that mothers should visit a trained health worker and advice regarding the pregnancy and the benefits of going for ANC.