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Mahdizadeh M, Bakhtiyari-dovvombaygi2 M, Kiyani-Mask M, Barzanouni S, Khodadadi F. Prevalence of iron deficiency anemia and associated factors among pregnant women attending health centers in Torbat Heydariyeh City: Relationship with pregnancy outcomes. JRHMS 2024; 3 (3) :51-57
URL: http://jrhms.thums.ac.ir/article-1-127-en.html

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) remains a major public health concern during pregnancy and is associated with adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. The prevalence and determinants of IDA vary across regions due to socioeconomic and nutritional differences. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of IDA and its associated factors among pregnant women and to assess its relationship with pregnancy outcomes in Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran. This descriptive–analytical cross-sectional study was conducted between 2020 and 2021 among 189 pregnant women attending health centers for routine antenatal care. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire including demographic, obstetric, and nutritional variables. Hematological parameters (hemoglobin and serum ferritin) were measured using standard laboratory methods. Anemia was defined according to World Health Organization criteria, and iron deficiency anemia was diagnosed based on reduced hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 21, applying independent t-tests, chi-square tests, and correlation analyses. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. The prevalence of iron deficiency anemia among participants was 15%. A significant inverse association was observed between maternal body mass index (BMI) and weight with the prevalence of anemia (p <0.05), indicating that women with lower BMI and body weight were at higher risk. No statistically significant relationships were found between anemia and maternal age, parity, history of miscarriage, or educational level (p >0.05). Nutritional status emerged as a stronger determinant of anemia than demographic characteristics. Iron deficiency anemia affected a considerable proportion of pregnant women in the study population. Low maternal weight and BMI were the primary factors associated with anemia, whereas demographic variables showed no significant influence. These findings highlight the importance of targeted screening and nutritional counseling for underweight pregnant women. Future longitudinal studies incorporating dietary patterns and socioeconomic factors are recommended to improve preventive strategies against anemia during pregnancy.