Anemia and Iron Deficiency in Pregnancy: Prevalence and Associated Factors in Lahore, Punjab

Abstract

Background: Anemia and iron deficiency during pregnancy remain critical public health challenges in developing regions, significantly contributing to maternal morbidity, adverse birth outcomes, and impaired fetal development. Despite ongoing health interventions, maternal anemia prevalence remains high in Punjab, Pakistan. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of anemia and iron deficiency among pregnant women in Lahore, Punjab, and to identify the primary sociocultural, nutritional, and demographic factors associated with these conditions.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted across public and private healthcare facilities in Lahore, Punjab. A structured questionnaire was administered to collect demographic information, dietary habits, socio-economic status, and obstetric history. Blood samples were analyzed to assess hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations for anemia classification and serum ferritin levels for iron deficiency assessment. A chi-square test was used to identify significant risk factors associated with gestational anemia and iron deficiency.

Results: The prevalence of anemia among the study population was found to be high, with a significant proportion also exhibiting biochemical evidence of iron deficiency. Factors significantly associated with anemia and iron deficiency included low dietary iron intake, multiparity, low socioeconomic status, inadequate prenatal care, and short interpregnancy intervals.

Conclusion: The high prevalence of anemia and iron deficiency during pregnancy in Lahore underscores the need for enhanced public health interventions focusing on nutrition education, routine screening, and improved access to prenatal care. Targeted strategies are essential to address the modifiable risk factors and reduce the burden of maternal anemia in the region.