Assessment of knowledge and practices of mothers regarding anemia and its prevention during pregnancy in Rangjuli block, Goalpara, Assam

Anemia during pregnancy and postpartum period isa major global health problem with the highest prevalence in developingcountries. In Assam,hemorrhage (21.3%), pregnancy induced hypertension (17.3%) and sepsis(10%) were the major cause of death among direct causes whereasanemia (28.7%) was the major indirect cause of maternal death. Thestudy will be conducted in Goalpara district of Assam which is a backwarddistrict in terms of health, nutrition, education, basic infrastructure likerural road connectivity and access to potable water. In rural areas ofdeveloping countries, anemia in pregnancy is generally associated with infections and nutritional deficiencies. The prevalence of iron deficiencyanemia among pregnant women is high in Assam which highlights that thisis an important public health problem. So preventing anemia or treating itduring the antenatal period is essential.

The objectives of the study is to assess the knowledge and practices of mothers regarding anemiaand its prevention during pregnancy and to determine the factors influencing the knowledge and practices ofmothers towards prevention of anemia during pregnancy.

Sample size is calculated using formula for single proportionwith 5% marginal error and 95% confidence interval (CI) i.e. n = Z2 P(1-P)/d2. where, n= sample sizeZ= statistic for a level of confidence (1.96), P= expected prevalence or proportion, d= precision (0.05)Previous study conducted in Puducherry shows the prevalence ofknowledge of anemia among pregnant women is 52.23% and byconsidering a non-response rate of 10%, the final sample size calculated is426. A validated questionnaire will be used. The questionnaire willconsist of socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge about anemia and practices to prevent anemia during pregnancy.

     This study will provide insight into the knowledge andpractices regarding prevention of anemia among postnatal women ofRangjuli block. It will help in assessing the gaps, if any, between theknowledge and practices to prevent anemia and to identify the factors thatare influencing the practices of those postnatal women. Addressing thesegaps and factors will help in providing necessary suggestions andrecommendations to control and reduce anemia related health problems infuture at the community level.