ASSESSMENT OF IRON CONSUMPTION PATTERNS AND IRON STATUS AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN ATTENDING ANTENATAL CLINIC AT THE NATIONAL OBSTETRIC FISTULA CENTER, NINGI, BAUCHI STATE

ABSTRACT This study investigated the consumption patterns of iron and iron status among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at the National Obstetric Fistula Center, Ningi, Bauchi State. This study influence to assesses the consumption pattern of iron and the iron status of pregnant women attending antenatal clinics. A cross-sectional design was employed, involving 150 pregnant women selected through systematic random sampling. Data on dietary iron intake were gathered using food frequency questionnaires, while iron status was assessed via a 24-hour dietary recall. Results showed that 62% of participants had iron deficiency anemia (IDA), with an average daily iron intake of 15 mg, falling short of the WHO-recommended 27 mg, and only 35% adhering to iron supplementation. The high prevalence of IDA (62%) aligns with the global estimate of 40% anemia among pregnant women, with sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria, reporting rates of 35% to 75% due to poor dietary intake, inadequate supplementation, and conditions like parasitic infections and malaria (Balcha et al.,2023; Kare and Gujo, 2021). Increased physiological demand, observed in 45% of cases, and poor compliance with supplementation (35%) were significant contributors, consistent with Deori et al., (2021), who noted impaired iron absorption as a key factor. The average intake of 15 mg/day reflects dietary insufficiencies, exacerbating the issue in a region where cultural preferences and limited access to fortified foods are prevalent. These findings support WHO (2016) reports linking IDA to maternal morbidity, preterm birth, low birth weight, and perinatal complications, highlighting a public health challenge. In conclusion the study concludes that Iron deficiency remains a critical health challenge among pregnant women at NOFIC Ningi, driven by insufficient intake and low supplementation adherence. It’s recommended to Enhanced nutritional education, improved access to iron supplements, and integration of deworming programs into antenatal care are recommended to address IDA effectively.