ANEMIA AMONG LACTATING MOTHERS IN KOKANG, MYANMAR

Anemia is an important public health problem among lactating mothers in the developing countries. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of anemia in lactating mothers in Kokang, Myanmar and its associated risk factors. We conducted a cross sectional study of 65 lactating mothers during June-October 2014. Each participant filled out a questionnaire asking about diet, source of drinking water, health status, socioeconomic and demographic factors. Each participant was also evaluated anthropometrically and had blood taken to determine their hemoglobin and their iron, copper, zinc, calcium, and magnesium levels. The prevalence rate of anemia (hemoglobin 81-120 g/l) in study subjects was 73.8%, and 10.8% had severe anemia (hemoglobin ≤ 80 g/l). Factors of malnutrition (mid-upper arm circumference < 23.5 cm, p = 0.013), iron deficiency (serum iron concentration < 6.6 mmol/l, p = 0.008), and source of drinking water (p = 0.031) were related to anemia. Fifty-six point three percent of women with anemia had a low serum iron level. Anemia was common among study subjects in Kokang. Since a large portion of women in our study with anemia had a low serum iron level, we conclude the major cause of anemia in our study was iron deficiency.