Publication:

Knowledge, attitude and practice study regarding anemia in antenatal women

Background To study the knowledge, attitude and practices of antenatal women regarding nutrition and drug compliance in Maternal and Child Health Center, Mangalore.

Methods The study was carried out on 200 primigravida visiting the hospital over a period of 4 months from January 2014 to April 2014. Women attending the antenatal OPD were asked to fill a questionnaire regarding anemia so as to test their knowledge, attitudes and practices pertaining to anemia and role of their diet. Inclusion criteria: Primigravida, age > 19years.

Results 108 mothers out of 200 were aware of the correct sources of iron in food, however only 60 women actually implemented this in their diet practice. About 50 mothers were aware of a few maternal complications of anemia in pregnancy and 62 of them knew about fetal complications like low birth weight. The study reflects the ignorance, poverty and illiteracy among majority of the child bearing women coming to the Hospital.

Conclusions Assessments of knowledge and practice and health education are essential step towards prevention of anaemia in pregnancy. Educating antenatal women about the importance of diet and implementing this into practice will help in the prevention of anemia.