Prevalence Of Anemia Among Teenage Pregnant Girls Attending Antenatal Clinic In Two Health Facilities In Bungoma District, Western Kenya

Severe anemia is an important cause of maternal morbidity and mortality among teenage pregnant girls who are susceptible because of their rapid growth and associated high iron requirements. Teenage girls often enter pregnancy with less adequate stores of nutrients and are thus unable to withstand the demands imposed by pregnancy. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of anemia and associated factors among teenage pregnant girls. The study was conducted at Maternal Child Health Clinic of   Bungoma district hospital and Bumula Health Centre. This was a cross section study. Teenage pregnant girls attending ANC were recruited. Food frequency questionnaires were used to assess the dietary intake and factors associated with anemia. Blood sample and stool were used to determine the hemoglobin levels and presence of intestinal worms. The prevalence of anemia was 61% (Hemoglobin < 110 g/L). 20.5% had severe anemia, (hemoglobin < 60 g/L), 31.2% had moderate anemia (hemoglobin < or = 90 g/L), and 48.3% had mild anemia.  Iron intake was significantly associated with perceived food shortage (OR: 2.548; 95% CI: 1.632 – 3.980). Hookworm affected calcium intake (OR: 3.074; 95% CI: 1.089 – 8.698) and malaria parasites affected folate intake (OR: 0.355; 95% CI: 0.226 – 0.557). Those with hookworm were 3 times more likely to have inadequate calcium intake as compared to those without. Anemia was high in the study population. Parasitic infestation and food intake were associated with anemia. De-worming with correction of anemia should be encouraged. Keywords: Anemia, teenage girls, pregnancy, nutrient intake, iron