Determinants of Anemia Among Pregnant Females Attending Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Lahore

Abstract: Anemia is an alarming situation in emerging countries and it almost affects the two - thirds of expecting women. It contributes to parental sickness and mortality, and low birth weight babies. Objective: To find out the determinants of anemia among pregnant females attending sir Ganga Ram hospital, Lahore. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted at Sir Ganga Ram hospital, Lahore on 100 pregnant anemic women. Data were collected through pre-tested questionnaire by using non-probability convenient sampling technique. Duration of the study was 4 months. All anemic pregnant females aged between 18-45years were included. Data were analyzed by using SPSS version 21.0. Results: 42 % females were slightly anemic where as 58 % were severely anemic. Females between the age of 18- 28 years were mostly anemic. Only 55% females were consuming red meat, which is a major source of iron. Only 27% were consuming organ meat and only 35% wereconsuming egg regularly. Less intake of nuts, salad and other foods items were also the causes of anemia and due to which 21% females experienced pica. Conclusions: The ratio of anemia was more prevalent in females who used to avoid egg intake, salad, dried fruits and organ meat intake. Pregnancy in less age and low socioeconomic status were the major determinants of anemia in females. Also females who experienced multiple pregnancies without gap were more likely to develop anemia Key words: Anemia, pregnant females, Hemoglobin, socioeconomic status, Diet.