A STUDY ON KNOWLEDE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE REGARDING ANAEMIA IN ANTENATAL WOMEN IN A GOVERNMENT TEACHING HOSPITAL, DEHRADUN

Dr. Minakshi Singh MS, Dr. Richa Sinha*, Dr. Chitra Joshi and Dr. Pooja Jain

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Anemia in pregnancy is very common in women of reproductive age group; and its diagnosis and prompt treatment is of immense significance due to associated morbidity and mortality especially in developing countries. The anemia results in fatigue, low productivity, increased risk of premature delivery and lowered physical activity and mental concentration during childhood. Objective- To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding anemia amongst. Material and methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on antenatal women attending the OPD in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Government Doon Medical College, Uttarakhand. Antenatal women 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. Results: A total of 250 antenatal women attending the 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. It was observed that only 88(35.2 %) females were aware and practicing their knowledge of dietary source of hemoglobin during pregnancy. Majority of 145 (58 %) women were multipara of which only 123(49.2%) reported for the first time during second trimester. 112 (44.8%) women were illiterate and 152 (60.8%) women belonged to low socioeconomic status. Majority of them had obtained the knowledge through ASHA and ANM of the area.

Keywords: Knowledge Anemia, Pregnancy, Antenatal women.