Prevalence of anemia and its associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care follow up at Wollega University referral hospital, Western Ethiopia

BACKGROUND: Even if anemia is a worldwide public health problem affecting numerous people in all age groups, particularly the burden of the problem is higher among pregnant women. Anemia is estimated to contribute to more than 115,000 maternal deaths and 591,000 prenatal deaths globally per year. Maternal mortality is the prime health indicator in any society. Therefore, determining the prevalence of anemia and assessing its associated factors among pregnant women might help for the intervention of the problem. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of anemia and its associated factors among pregnant women attending Antenatal Care (ANC) at Wollega University Referral Hospital, Western Ethiopia. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Institution based cross-sectional study was conducted at antenatal care (ANC) departments of Gynecology and Obstetrics, and MCH at Wollega University Referral Hospital from July 15–22, 2019. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select the study unit. The data were collected using questionnaires, physical examination, and laboratory investigation. After collection, the data were entered using Epi Data version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 20 statistical software. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of anemia. Finally, the result was presented using text, tables, and charts. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of anemia using a cut off level of hemoglobin < 11 g/dl (< 33% Haematocrit) was 51 (17.8%). Out of all anemic pregnant women, 19 (37.25%) were mildly anemic, 24 (47%) were moderately anemic and 8 (15.68%) were severely anemic. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that Birth interval of less than 2 years (AOR = 2.56 CI [2.84–4.52]), history of malarial attack in the past 12 months (AOR = 2.585 CI [1.181–5.656]) and engaging into daily laborer occupation (AOR = 8.33 CI [2.724–25.497]) showed significant association with maternal anemia. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of anemia among pregnant women in this study is high. Having a birth interval of < 2 years, having a history of malarial attack in the past 12 months, and being engaged in daily laborer occupation were factors associated with anemia among pregnant women. Thus, contraceptive methods and information to space children, information, and services to prevent malaria and economically empowering women is needed to prevent anemia among pregnant women in the study area.