The persistence of a high prevalence of anemia in rural areas among pregnant women in Burkina Faso

Background: Despite WHO recommendations to reduce the global prevalence of anemia among women of reproductive age by 2025, anemia remains a truly global public health problem, especially among pregnant women.  Objective: The objective of our study was to examine the relationship between anemia and the place of residence in pregnant women. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in six health facilities between December 2018 and March 2019. Anemia was diagnosed using HemoCue HB 301 and a hemoglobin concentration <11 g/dl was classified as anemic. Adjusted logistic regression analysis was performed to examine relation between anemia and the place of residence in pregnant women. Results: A total of 1027 pregnant women were included in the study. The average age of females was 25.79 ± 6.02 years.  The prevalence of anemia was 57.2% (585/1023). In logistic regression analysis adjusted for age, wealth, education and parity, women living in rural areas were more likely to be anemic compared to women living in urban areas (ORa=1.33; 95% CI [1.01-1,74]. Conclusions:  Rural women are more likely to be anemic. Strategies to prevent anemia among pregnant women need to be strengthened in rural areas.