Factors Associated with Anemia among Selected Women of Reproductive Age in Tondo, Manila, Philippines
- Author:
Ana Kriselda B. Rivera
1
;
Ernani R. Bullecer
1
;
Angelica Anne E. Latorre
2
Author Information
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords: anemia; iron; women of reproductive age
- MeSH: Female; Iron; Reproduction; Hemoglobins
- From: Acta Medica Philippina 2020;54(5):509-516
- CountryPhilippines
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Background:Anemia is the most common medical disorder throughout a woman’s life. Given that anemia during reproductive years impacts future gestational and perinatal health, then any factors possibly associated with the disorder should be studied and ultimately addressed.
Objective:This study aimed to determine anemia prevalence and its associated factors (socio-demographic, lifestyle, knowledge, dietary and biochemical) among a select group of women of reproductive age (WRA) living in Tondo, Manila.
Methods:This is an analytic cross-sectional study that utilized interviewer-assisted questionnaire and blood extraction to collect data from 166 WRA (18-40 years).
Results:Anemia prevalence among the study participants was found to be 9.0%. In terms of associated factors, being anemic was found to be more likely if the WRA has these factors: higher parity, graduated from college; unemployed; living in a low-income household; took iron supplements, and; have low knowledge on iron. On the other hand, increase in age, increase intake of heme iron and non-heme iron food sources, and an increase in blood ferritin concentration were factors that made anemia less likely among WRA.
Conclusion:Examining these factors provides insight into the multicausal nature of anemia. Thus, prevention and control programs should focus on the contribution and interrelatedness of these factors to address anemia. - Full text:877-Article Text-11665-1-10-20201028.pdf
