Knowledge and Attitude towards Prevention of Iron Deficiency Anaemia among Pregnant Women in Selected Antenatal Clinics in Akinyele Local Government Area, Ibadan

Abstract

Background: Nutrition is important for proper development; adequate amount of nutrients in its right proportion is needed by all humans. Iron is needed in significant amount to support maternal and fetal growth. Deficiency results when there is significant decrease of iron store in the body. Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) has been identified as a global health problem with high prevalence among pregnant women and a major risk factor for maternal death and neonatal complications. Hence, the need to assess knowledge and attitude towards prevention of IDA among pregnant women

Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study was adopted for the study. It was conducted using 200 pregnant women in three Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs). Multistage sampling technique was utilized. Structured self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from 22^nd November, 2022 to 13^th December, 2022. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics of chi-square test at P< 0.05% level of significance

Results: More than one-third (41.5%) are between 27-32 years with mean age 29.48 ±5.156, 183(91.5%) are legally married, 117(58.5%) attended secondary school, 114(57.0%) are traders, 163(81.50%) make an average income of #30000-#60000 per month, 137(68.5%) are primigravida with planned pregnancies in their third trimester 160(80%). More than half (53.0%) have high knowledge of IDA in pregnancy and its preventive strategies, 73.50% showed positive attitude towards the preventive strategies of IDA and good compliance to the preventive strategies (51.0%). Knowledge of preventive strategies of IDA in pregnancy and compliance were significantly associated (p= 0.037), attitude towards preventive strategies of IDA in pregnancy and compliance with preventive strategies were significantly associated (p = 0.000)

Discussion: High level of knowledge, positive attitude and good compliance to preventive strategies of IDA was demonstrated among participants. Therefore, regular health education on health promotion strategies is needed to sustain positive attitude and promote compliance.