Knowledge and dietary habits regarding anemia of pregnancy in the Republic of Gabon

Objective

This study contributes to clarifying the anemia status of pregnant women living in Gabon, knowledge of anemia, and its association with dietary habits. Thereby, we can provide educational approaches such as health guidance and nutritional counseling for pregnant women in the future.

Methods

This cross-sectional study used a questionnaire, and the study participants were pregnant women who are in Libreville. The inclusion criteria were as follows: 20 years age or older, a single pregnancy with no history of hematopoietic disease, at least at the second antenatal care and have blood test results, and can read and write French. The survey included basic information, knowledge of anemia, eating habits, and dietary diversity.

Results

A total of 121 questionnaires were analyzed, of which 75 (62.0%) indicated anemia; the mean hemoglobin level was 10.6 g/dL (SD ± 1.25) (range 7.0–14.3 g/dL). The mean number of correct answers out of seven statements about knowledge of anemia was 2.55 (SD ± 1.59). More than half of the respondents understood that anemia also affects the baby, but less than half understood that it affects the mother after childbirth, revealing a lack of knowledge. The group that consumed dark green leafy vegetables was significantly less anemic than the group that did not consume those. (χ² = 6.563, p = .038).

Conclusion

The maternal anemia rate was 62% in this study. There was little knowledge about anemia, including its effects on the mother's body, premature birth, and anemia without symptoms. And we suggest that dark green leafy vegetables are effective foods for anemia; therefore, healthcare providers can introduce these into their foods and recipes for improving anemia in the health education.