Prevalence & risk factors of anaemia among women of reproductive age in Bursa, Turkey

Background & objectives: The control of anaemia in women of childbearing age is essential to prevent low birth weight and perinatal and maternal mortality. The aim of this study was to determine the anaemia prevalence and risk factors in women of reproductive age group in Nilufer Public Health Training and Research Area, Bursa, Turkey. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 530 women were selected using stratified random sampling among 6,506 women in 15-49 age group and 488 women (92.1%) participated in the study. Pregnant women or women who were not sure of their pregnancy were not included in the study. The data collected were analysed by multivariate logistic regression analysis to determine the risk factors related to anaemia. Results: The prevalence of anaemia was 32.8 per cent (haemoglobin level < 12 g/dl). Usage of more than 2 sanitary pads in a day during menstruation (OR=3.67, 95% CI 2.30-5.88; P=0.000) and duration of menstrual bleeding more than 5 days (OR=3.01, 95% CI 1.94-4.66; P=0.000) were found to be risk factors for anaemia. Interpretation & conclusions: Approximately I of 3 women in the study area was diagnosed to be anaemic. These data indicated the necessity of a public health programme for prevention and early diagnosis of anaemia. Starting from adolescence, all non pregnant women should be screened for anaemia every 5-10 yr throughout their childbearing years during routine health examinations. The follow up service provided by midwives at the primary health care can be used as a suitable tool for anaemia prevention.