ABSTRACT.
BACKGROUND
Anemia in pregnancy is a major problem in both developed and developing countries. with its occurrence as a result of packed cell volume below levels of 33%. Particularly high prevalence exists in developing countries like Nigeria at a rate of 55%, pregnant women are particularly susceptible to this condition due to increased physiological needs on the body by the growing fetus. The commonest source of anemia in pregnancy is nutritional deficiency of iron alongside other causes which include worm infestation, malaria infection, and genetic disorders.
OBJECTIVES
To determine knowledge level towards anemia in pregnancy among pregnant women in Nigeria. To determine attitude level regarding anemia in pregnancy among pregnant women in Nigeria. This study was also conducted to identify the associations between knowledge and socio-demographic and antenatal characteristics.
METHODS
A cross sectional study involving 405 pregnant women receiving ante-natal care in primary and secondary healthcare facilities was conducted. Socio-demographic information and antenatal characteristics and knowledge and attitude in relation to anemia were collected using standardized questionnaires. Data analysis was done with Statistical Package Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21. Descriptive statistics were computed, as well as inferential statistics using chi-square tests. Scoring metrics for knowledge was predetermined.
RESULTS/DISCUSSION
The mean age and pcv of respondents were 29.5±4.27 and 34.89±4.45 respectively. Majority of the respondents (63.7%) showed poor knowledge of anemia in pregnancy, while 18.8% and 17.5% showed fair and good knowledge respectively, 45.9% of the respondents exhibited positive attitudes with 41.6% exhibiting undecided attitudes, and 12.5% exhibiting negative attitudes towards anemia in pregnancy. The knowledge score was poorer among group of primary and secondary educational level using Chi-square test with a score of 59.56(p<0.005), group of first trimester 13.77(0.008) using Chi-square test. The main reason for poor knowledge could be lack of available educational materials, lack of proper sensitization and awareness campaigns.
CONCLUSION
Results from the study suggests a poor level of knowledge and less than satisfactory attitude among pregnant women towards anemia during pregnancy as well as a significant relationship between educational status and knowledge level.
