ABSTRACT

Anemia among pregnant women is a significant public health issue in many developing countries, including Cameroon. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and determinants of anemia among pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic of Buea Regional Hospital in the South-West region of Cameroon. A cross-sectional study was conducted, involving 500 pregnant women who attended the antenatal clinic between [insert time frame]. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, obstetric history, dietary habits, and anthropometric measurements were collected using structured questionnaires and medical records. Hemoglobin levels were measured using standard procedures, with anemia defined as hemoglobin <11 g/dL. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed for data analysis. The prevalence of anemia among pregnant women was [insert prevalence], with [insert key findings]. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that [insert significant determinants]. These findings underscore the importance of implementing targeted interventions to address anemia among pregnant women in the Buea region, focusing on improving access to prenatal care, promoting iron supplementation, and addressing socio-economic determinants.

Keywords: Anemia, pregnant women, prevalence, determinants, antenatal care, Buea Regional Hospital, Cameroon.

Chapter One: Introduction

1.1 Background of the Study

Anemia, characterized by a deficiency in red blood cells or hemoglobin levels, remains a significant global health concern, particularly among pregnant women. Its prevalence is notably high in developing regions, including sub-Saharan Africa, where approximately 57.1% of pregnant women are affected (WHO, 2015). Cameroon, situated in Central Africa, grapples with similar challenges, with anemia persisting as a prevalent issue among pregnant women, affecting both maternal and fetal health outcomes (Tagny et al., 2013).

The Buea Regional Hospital, located in the South-West region of Cameroon, serves as a vital healthcare facility catering to a diverse population. However, despite efforts to provide comprehensive antenatal care services, the prevalence and determinants of anemia among pregnant women attending the hospital’s antenatal clinic remain insufficiently explored. Anemia in pregnancy can lead to adverse consequences such as maternal fatigue, preterm birth, low birth weight, and increased maternal and neonatal mortality rates (WHO, 2019).

Multiple factors contribute to the high prevalence of anemia among pregnant women in Cameroon. These include nutritional deficiencies, such as iron, folate, and vitamin B12, which are essential for red blood cell production (Engle-Stone et al., 2017). Additionally, parasitic infections like malaria and intestinal helminths, common in tropical regions like Cameroon, further exacerbate anemia by causing chronic blood loss and impairing nutrient absorption (Doumbe-Belisse et al., 2019; Njunda et al., 2018).

Socio-economic determinants also play a crucial role in shaping the burden of anemia among pregnant women in Cameroon. Factors such as poverty, limited access to healthcare services, inadequate education, and cultural practices contribute to poor dietary intake and hinder women’s ability to access prenatal care and iron supplementation (Gebremedhin et al., 2014; Kamga et al., 2019). Furthermore, socio-cultural beliefs surrounding pregnancy, including food taboos and traditional practices, may influence dietary habits and contribute to the development of anemia (Nges et al., 2019).

1.2 Problem Statement

Anaemia is the world’s second leading cause of disability and thus among the most serious global health issues. More over in malaria endemic countries such as Cameroon, anaemia is one of the regularly encountered preventable causes of death in children under 5 years in addition to pregnant women. [4].

Previous studies on the prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women in Cameroon have been reported at 49.3% according to the World Bank Collection of development indicators [5]. While advances in treatment strategies and pharmacotherapy have produced a dramatic reduction in the mortality of patients with anaemia, no recent study has been conducted to evaluate the changes in its prevalence [5].

1.3 Rationale                                                                                             

Reducing the burden of anaemia will be a major contribution in achieving one of the UN Millennium Development Goals. Since the greatest burden of anaemia falls on the most ‘hard-to-reach’ individuals, any programme that aims at reducing anaemia or at least making knowledge about it readily accessible is of utmost importance[6].

Obtaining the prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women attending the Buea Regional Hospital in the year 2020 will enable the evaluation of the changes experienced over the years and the finding of ways through which the outcome could be improved [6].

1.4 Research Questions

• To what extend has the prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women change over time?
• What are the factors that are responsible for changes in the prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women?
• What are the remedies against anaemia in pregnancy?

1.5 Research Hypothesis

Null hypothesis

• There is no change in prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women over years
• There is no factor that is responsible for changes in the prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women
• There is no remedies against anaemia in pregnancy

1.6 Research Objectives

a. General objective

The general objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women attending the Buea Regional Hospital (BRH)

b. Specific objectives

• To determine whether there has been a change in the prevalence of anaemia during pregnancy over the time.
• To identify the factors that are responsible for changes in the prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women.
• Enumerate effective remedies against anaemia in pregnancy.