Prevalence of Maternal Anemia Among Pregnant Women in Golestan Province of Iran in 2020

Anemia is one of the most important disorders in the world mostly affecting children and pregnant women.
Objective This study aims to assess the prevalence of maternal anemia and its related factors among pregnant women in Golestan Province of Iran.

This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted on 1000 pregnant women referred to a comprehensive health center affiliated to Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Golestan, Iran in 2020. Chi-square (x2) and multiple logistic regression analysis were used to find demographic/obstetric factors related to maternal anemia.

The prevalence of anemia was 18.4%; 19.27% ​​had severe anemia, 63.03% had moderate anemia and 17.7% were with mild anemia. The interpregnancy interval, parity, age of first pregnancy, age of marriage, pregnancy month, history of urinary tract infection, number of medical care, and education had a significant relationship with maternal anemia (P<0.05), but the place of residence and the place to get medical care had no significant relationship with the maternal anemia.

With increase in the pregnancy month, history of urinary tract infection, low age of marriage, low number of received medical care, and low educational level, the risk of maternal anemia increases. It is important to identify women at risk of anemia and ensure adequate and timely care for them.