Iron Deficiency Anemia in pregnant females coming for their 1st antenatal workup - A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Anemia is defined as reduced levels of circulating hemoglobin (Hb) that is insufficient to meet the oxygen requirements of cells. Anemia in pregnancy is very common. It may be due to dilutional effect but the most common cause of gestational anemia in the developing world is iron deficiency. Aim: To find out frequency of iron deficiency anemia in pregnant females coming for their 1st antenatal workup. Place & duration: Lahore General Hospital, Lahore. 04 weeks. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study. 188 pregnant ladies between ages of 18-46 were included in the present study. After taking informed consent; pregnant females fulfilling the established criteria were selected who showed up for their first antenatal workup. Blood samples were taken as part of their regular antenatal workup. Results: Majority of the patients were found out to be anemic on their 1st antenatal workup. 179(95.2%) patients had their Hb levels <11 g/dl. Out of these; 23(12.2%) patients were mildly anemic, 150(79.7%) patients were moderately anemic and 6(3.19%) patients were severely anemic.167(88.8%) patients had ferritin levels below 20ng/ml while 166(88.2%) patients had their MCV <80 fl. 144(76.5%) fully met the laid down criteria for iron deficiency { 1) Hb levels <11 g/dl, 2) MCV <80 fl, 3) Ferritin value <20ng/ml}. 01 patient was found out to be having thalassemia minor. Conclusion: This study concluded that most of the expecting mothers were found out to be anemic on their 1st antenatal workup. Iron deficiency was the most common cause found in these patients. It has serious consequences on the health of both mother and the developing baby. It can lead to stunted growth, low birth weight, premature births and increased perinatal mortality. This all can be prevented by replenishing iron stores of mother. Hence it is indispensable to educate women regarding health promotion.