Association of Socio-demographic Factors with Iron Deficiency Anemia among the Pregnant Women of the Poor Urban Population of Ajmer City, India

Abstract

Background: Till date Iron deficiency anemia remains the main cause for anemia among pregnant women. India stands ahead to all other nations in the world in the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia among pregnant women. However, if left untreated, it can lead to many undue and unhappy adverse results on the mother and the fetus as well. Cross-sectional, observational study to find the relationship between socio-demographic factors and anemia among the poor pregnant women of the target group.

Objective: This study aims to identify the socio-demographic factors prevalent among the pregnant women of the poor sector of Ajmer city and to foster adequate steps to irradiate the root cause of anemia among the women of reproductive age, for a healthier and better future.

Materials and Methods: Questionnaire based, cross sectional survey of pregnant women coming to Janana Hospital. Secondary sources were used to identification anemia. Descriptive statistics was applied.

Results: Median ages of the most affected women were from the age of 20 to 30 years. Increasing number of gravidas also has an adverse effect on anemia. Educational qualification contributes positively in building the health of the women.Non vegetarian diet had a benefit over the vegetarian diet in controlling anemia. Women married at 20 or before were more susceptible for anemia.

Conclusion: Socio-demographic determinants have a role to play in deciding the commencement of anemia among the pregnant women. The poor sections of the society are therefore more susceptible to develop anemia during pregnancy.