Aims: Anaemia in pregnancy is a common health problem in poor-resource countries like Nigeria
and is associated with both maternal and perinatal complications. It is multifactorial in origin; the
relative contribution of these factors may differ from one region to the other. Anaemia is a
preventable condition through interventions that are potentially feasible and cost effective. The
objective of this study was to determine the magnitude of anaemia in pregnancy and its associated
factors In Azare, north-eastern Nigeria.
Study Design: Cross-sectional study.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Federal Medical
Centre, Azare Bauchi State, between January 2010 and June 2010.
Methodology: Four hundred women who presented to the antenatal clinic for their booking visit
were studied. Anaemia was defined as a haematocrit of 33%. Demographic and obstetric
characteristics as well as blood, urine and stool samples were taken from the enrolled participants.
Estimation of haematocrit, malaria parasite, urine microscopy and stool microscopy were done. The
data was analysed with Epi info 3.3.4. (CDC Atlanta).
Results: Prevalence of anaemia was 71.3% and severe anaemia was 1.4%. The majority (79%) of
the women booked in the second trimester. Multiple logistic regression model revealed malaria
parasitaemia (AOR 5.45CI 2.59-11.45), low socioeconomic status (AOR 4.90 CI 2.09-11.49) and
bacteriuria (AOR 4.74CI 1.99-11.32) as significant associated factors of anaemia in pregnancy.
Conclusion: The prevalence of anaemia in pregnancy in this community is high and it is an
established problem at booking visit. Girl-child education, economic empowerment of women,
antenatal care, treatment of infestations and provision of safe water supply should be promoted.