A study on the effect of iron folic acid supplementation on the haemoglobin concentration of antenatal cases in field practice area of a rural health centre, Kadapa

Introduction: Surveys in different parts of India indicate that about 50 to 60 per cent of women belonging to low socio-economic groups are anemic in the last trimester of pregnancy. The major etiological factors are iron and folic acid deficiencies. Materials and Methods: In current study baseline data of antenatal cases is recorded with the help of a pre-tested questionnaire. Their blood samples are collected on the date of registration and analyzed for hemoglobin concentration by cyan meth hemoglobin method. First pack of IFA containing 30 tablets is given to the subjects along with administration instructions. These steps were repeated on subsequent antenatal visits at 20, 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy as per norms. During these subsequent visits hemoglobin concentrations are measured and compliance for IFA supplementation is enquired. Results: A total of 598 subjects could be followed till the outcome of pregnancy. The mean age was 23.6 yrs. Out of all the risk factors complicating pregnancy most common risk factor was anemia. Most common type of anaemia was due to iron deficiency. Mean Hemoglobin values at the time of registration did not vary significantly in respect to their age groups, community, economic status, gravid status and parity of pregnancy. Conclusion: Mean Hemoglobin values varied significantly with the literacy status of women. Mean Hemoglobin values varied significantly at every visit with supplementation of IFA. All the women receiving IFA supplementation did not have adequate hemoglobin levels at the time of delivery.