Prevention of iron deficiency anaemia among pregnant women attending antenatal care at Kajjansi Health Centre IV, Wakiso district. A cross-sectional study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51168/p2nhcd02Keywords:
Iron deficiency anaemia, Antenatal care, Cultural practices, Kajjansi Health Centre IVAbstract
Background:
Iron deficiency anaemia during pregnancy is a major public health concern, particularly in developing countries, and is associated with adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. This study assessed the determinants of prevention of iron deficiency anaemia among pregnant women attending antenatal care at Kajjansi Health Centre IV in Wakiso District.
Methodology:
A hospital-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 96 pregnant women attending antenatal care. Participants were selected using consecutive sampling. Data were collected using semi-structured, self-administered questionnaires and analyzed using Microsoft Excel. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages were used to summarize the findings.
Results:
The majority of respondents were aged 18–29 years (55%), unemployed (62%), married (60%), and multiparous (82%). Knowledge about iron deficiency anaemia was low, with only 30% having heard of the condition and 92% unaware of the benefits of iron and folic acid supplementation. Only 8% reported daily intake of supplements. Socio-economic and cultural factors significantly influenced prevention, with 72% facing financial constraints and 84% reporting cultural restrictions on consuming iron-rich foods. Dietary practices were suboptimal, with only 29% consuming iron-rich foods daily. Health system factors also played a role; although 54% attended antenatal care 3–4 times, 60% reported receiving no education on anaemia prevention, and 60% were not regularly dewormed.
Conclusion:
Prevention of iron deficiency anaemia among pregnant women is influenced by inadequate knowledge, socio-economic challenges, cultural beliefs, and gaps in health service delivery.
Recommendations:
Strengthening health education during antenatal care, improving access to supplements, promoting community nutrition programs, and addressing cultural barriers are essential to enhance anaemia prevention among pregnant women.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Mohammed Swaphia Nakayiza, Ms. Hasifa Nansereko, Frank Ssemuwemba, Jane Frank Nalubega, Immaculate Prosperia Naggulu (Author)
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
