PREVALENCE OF RISK FACTORS OF ANAEMIA AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN: A CASE STUDY OF REEME CLINIC, BAUCHI, BAUCHI STATE
Abstract
Anemia during pregnancy remains a major global public health problem, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where nutritional deficiencies, infectious diseases, and socio-economic constraints are common. In Nigeria, maternal anemia contributes significantly to maternal morbidity, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and neonatal complications. This study assessed the prevalence and determinants of anemia among pregnant women attending antenatal care at Reemee Medicare, Bauchi State. A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed involving 150 pregnant women selected during antenatal clinic visits. Data were collected using structured questionnaires covering socio-demographic characteristics, obstetric and medical history, dietary practices, supplement use, and knowledge of anemia. Hemoglobin values were obtained from medical records to determine anemia status, while descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were used for data analysis. The findings revealed that 52% of respondents were anemic, indicating a moderate public health burden according to World Health Organization classification. Most participants were aged 25–34 years (52%), and a large proportion earned below ₦30,000 monthly (70.6%). Multiparity (46.7%) and malaria during pregnancy (48%) were also common among respondents. Significant associations were found between anemia and educational level (χ² = 21.45, p = 0.001), monthly income (χ² = 31.62, p = 0.000), malaria during pregnancy (χ² = 23.11, p = 0.000), iron-folic acid supplementation (χ² = 44.22, p = 0.000), and vegetable consumption (χ² = 18.73, p = 0.001). Although 81.3% of respondents had heard about anemia, 57.3% demonstrated poor overall knowledge regarding its causes, prevention, and complications. The study concludes that anemia among pregnant women in Bauchi is multifactorial, influenced by socio-economic, obstetric, dietary, medical, and knowledge-related factors. Strengthening antenatal nutrition education, promoting regular iron supplementation, and improving malaria prevention are essential to reduce maternal anemia and improve pregnancy outcomes.
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