Risk factors for iron-deficiency anaemia among pregnant women living in rural Vietnam.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the prevalence of anaemia in rural Vietnam and to determine its risk factors.


METHODS
A cross-sectional survey.


METHODS
Vietnam, Nghe An Province.


METHODS
The total number of participants was 439. Of these participants, one was excluded from the study due to a mental disorder. Forty-seven did not participate in the test for parasites and 68 did not complete at least one of the questions.


RESULTS
The prevalence of anaemia (haemoglobin (Hb) <11.0 g dl(-1)) was 43.2% and of severe anaemia (Hb <8.0 g dl(-1)) was 0.5%. Taking iron tablets, the consumption of eggs and the preference for Western medicine significantly and positively correlated with Hb concentration in the pregnant women in a multiple regression analysis. Pregnancy duration and hookworm infestation significantly and negatively correlated with Hb concentration in the pregnant women.


CONCLUSIONS
The prevalence of anaemia in rural Vietnam has remained as high as that found in the national anaemia survey in 2000. The results of the present study could aid in the development of an iron-deficiency anaemia programme among pregnant women in rural Vietnam that emphasises iron supplementation, parasite control and improved diet, including the consumption of eggs. The programme's focus should be on women who prefer traditional medicine to Western medicine.
Aikawa
Ritsuko
R
Institute for International Cooperation, Japan International Cooperation Agency, Tokyo, Japan. ritsuko_aikawa@hotmail.com
Ngyen
C Khan
CK
Sasaki
Satoshi
S
Binns
Colin W
CW
D000328:Adult; D018798:Anemia, Iron-Deficiency / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D004531:Eggs; D005260:Female; D006306:Health Surveys; D006454:Hemoglobins / Q000032:analysis; D006725:Hookworm Infections / Q000150:complications*; D006801:Humans; D019266:Iron, Dietary / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000378:metabolism; D011247:Pregnancy; D011250:Pregnancy Complications, Hematologic / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D012307:Risk Factors; D012423:Rural Health; D014744:Vietnam / Q000453:epidemiology
D006454:Hemoglobins; D019266:Iron, Dietary