Contributing Factors of Anaemia Among Women in The Reproductive Age Group (15 to 49 Years) in Rural Chengalpattu...

Anaemia is a major public health problem among women, and it accounts for a high risk of morbidity and mortality. Community-based studies to identify the determinants and risk factors of anaemia in the local population will be critical in guiding timely and effective interventions. The objective of the study was to estimate the prevalence and contributing factors of anaemia among women in the reproductive age group in the rural Chengalpattu district.

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 438 non-pregnant women of reproductive age in rural Chengalpattu district from 2022 to 2023. A multistage random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. Data collected using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire were analysed using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses using the software Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 21.

The prevalence of anaemia is 37.4%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis established a positive association between anaemia and unemployment [Adjusted B coefficient (AC) =1.758 (95% CI: 1.096-2.819)], lower socioeconomic status [AC = 2.301 (95% CI: 1.508-3.51)], inadequate dietary intake of iron [AC = 1.594 (95% CI: 1.038-2.45)], high perceived stress [AC = 3.948 (95% CI: 2.437-6.397)], irregular menstrual cycles [AC = 1.869 (95% CI: 1.199-2.914)] and heavy menstrual bleeding [AC = 2.814 (95% CI: 1.475-5.369)].

Health education on fortified foods and encouraging participation in village health nutrition day programme could enhance knowledge about locally available iron-rich foods. Moreover, integrating anaemia screening into routine non-communicable disease screening by multipurpose health workers at the community level can ensure early diagnosis and treatment.