ADHERENCE TO IRON AND FOLATE THERAPY AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN ATTENDING ANTENATAL CLINIC AT A TERTIARY HOSPITAL IN SOUTHERN NIGERIA

Ubong Akpan*, Udeme Asibong and Saturday Etuk

ABSTRACT

Background: Anaemia is highly prevalent among pregnant women especially in the developing countries. Iron deficiency is the most important cause. Adherence to haematinics may be an important challenging factor in combating anaemia. Objective: To determine the rate of adherence to haemtinics and the prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women in the Antenatal clinic in the hospital. Methodology: This study included 200 pregnant women by systematic random sampling method. They were given standard dose of iron and folic supplements and followed up for a minimum period of 3 months. Then they were assessed for medication adherence and the presence of anaemia. Data were collected on the women socio-demographic, medical and obstetric profile, adherence rate, and associated factors influencing drug compliance. Missing more than 2 doses in One month was considered non-adherence. Anaemia was defined as PCV less than 33% (WHO). Results: The mean age of the women was 28.37±3.974 years. Awareness on iron therapy in pregnancy was 92% while adherence rate was 85%. Younger maternal age and advance gestational age were significantly associated with adherence (P=0.001). Educational level, family size and income did not significantly influence adherence (P>0.05). The prevalence of anaemia was 31%. Poor adherence and poor nutrition did not necessarily predict maternal anaemia (P=0.246, and p=0.430 respectively). Logistic regression of independent determinants of adherence shows that parity (OR: 41.0, 95% CI: 2.15-7.82) and antenatal counseling on haematinics (OR: 6.3, 95% CI: 1.57 – 25.20) were independent predictors of adherence. Conclusion: Educating pregnant clients on need for adherence to iron and folic acid supplement may promote healthy pregnancy.

Keywords: Adherence, iron, anaemia, nutrition, awareness, haematinics.