Anemia in pregnant women in a rural block of Kashmir valley: Its prevalence and socio-demographic associates.

Background: Anaemia is a major public health problem in developing countries like India and is especially seen among women of childbearing age, during pregnancy and lactation. Nearly two-thirds of pregnant and one-half of non-pregnant women in developing countries have anaemia, which increases the risk of maternal and fetal mortality and morbidity. Aims & Objective: The study was designed to assess the prevalence of anaemia in pregnant women and to report the socio-demographic factors associated with anaemia during pregnancy. Material and Methods: This is a Cross sectional study. The study was conducted in Block Hajan, the rural field practice area under the department of community medicine, Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) Soura.482 pregnant women were examined and screened for anaemia. Haemoglobin level, age, education, income, type of family and parity were among the various variables studied. Statistical analysis was done by using Chi-square test using SPSS statistical package version (Chicago 11, IL). Results: A high prevalence (91%) of anaemia (Hb<11g/dl) was observed. The prevalence of anaemia was significantly higher in those aged ≥ 35 years. A highly significant association was found with woman’s age, parity, educational and socio-economic status. However, family type and birth interval were not significantly associated with anaemia. Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women and there is need for correcting this to improve the overall health of pregnant women.