The Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites and Anaemia among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinic in Federal Medical Centre Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Anaemia is a major contributor to maternal deaths in developing countries. Association of anaemia with intestinal parasites has been established, hence by eliminating intestinal parasite, anaemia may be reduced with positive effects on maternal outcome. A comparative cross-sectional study was done to determine the prevalence of anaemia and intestinal parasitic infection among pregnant mothers attending antenatal clinic in Federal Medical Centre Owerri Metropolis, Imo State. One hundred and twelve pregnant women with and without anaemia were enrolled in the study at the antenatal clinic of the hospital. The data on social and demographic variables was collected through a structured questionnaire. Haemoglobin estimation and stool examination for intestinal parasitic infection was done.. Anaemia was found in 66 (58.9%) women and 52 (46.5%) had helmintic infestation. Anaemia was significantly related to intestinal parasites, especially hookworms. There was a highly significant relationship between education and the knowledge of women regarding effect of intestinal parasitic infestations (P<0.001), transmission and spread of infestations (P<0.001). The knowledge of women regarding the effect of intestinal parasitic infestation was significantly (P<0.001) related to the occurrence of parasitic infestations. Intestinal parasitic infestation in pregnancy was significantly related to anaemia. Hence all women coming to antenatal clinics should be screened for intestinal parasites. The antenatal care should include deworming with correction and prevention of anaemia.

Keywords:Prevalence, Intestinal Parasites, Anaemia, Pregnant Women,