Anemia and its Determinant Factors among Pregnant Women in Ebantu District, East Wollega zone, Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: Anemia affects almost two-thirds of pregnant women in developing countries and contributes to maternal morbidity and mortality and to low birth weight. Anemia during pregnancy is associated with negative maternal and neonatal outcomes. However, there is limited data regarding prevalence of anemia and its determinant factors during pregnancy in western Ethiopia. Objective: To determine the prevalence of anemia and its determinants among pregnant women in Ebantu District, East Wollega zone, Ethiopia. Material: A cross-sectional study was carried out among pregnant women. A total of 625 pregnant women were screened for hemoglobin level. The test was determined using hemocue screening technique. Weight and height was measured & other determinants of anemia during pregnancy were also assessed using a structured questionnaire. Results: This study revealed that 23.7% of patients had mild anemia, and 11.9% had moderate and none with severe anemia. Multivariate analysis showed that birth interval less than or equal to two years adjusted odds ratio (95%CI):1.5(1.1, 2.9), a history of abortion adjusted odds ratio (95%CI):2.4(1.6, 3.6), having two or more abortions adjusted odds ratio (95%CI) 2.6(1.3, 6.2), illiteracy with crudes odds ratio (95%CI):2.974(1.5, 5.6) and AOR: 5.92(1.8,18.9) were significantly associated with anemia in pregnancy. Conclusions: The major determinants of anemia in pregnancy are illiteracy, short birth spaces less than or equal to two, history of abortion and lack of Iron supplementation while pregnant. Content: The major determinants of anemia in pregnancy are illiteracy, short birth spaces less than or equal to two, history of abortion and lack of Iron supplementation while pregnant.