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Article Type

Original Study

Abstract

Objectives The aim of this study was to estimate and compare the prevalence of iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) and identifying its possible risk factors among pregnant women in Menoufia Governorate, Egypt and Taiz Governorate, Yemen. Background Iron deficiency is the most prevalent nutritional disorder in the world. Nearly 2 billion people experience anemia. Iron deficiency is the most frequent cause of anemia especially in pregnant women. Participants and methods A cross-sectional case–control study was carried out in Shebin El-kom district and Taiz city in Menoufia Governorate, Egypt and Taiz Governorate, Yemen. The study sample consisted of 365 pregnant women (177 Egyptian pregnant women and 188 Yemeni pregnant women). Women were asked to complete a predesigned questionnaire. Blood samples were collected for complete blood count, and stool analysis was done. Results The prevalence of IDA was higher among Egyptian pregnant women than Yemeni pregnant women (52.5 and 32.9%, respectively). IDA was higher in second trimester among Egyptian pregnant women (65.7%) and higher in third trimester among Yemeni pregnant women (51.7%). IDA was higher in low socioeconomic standard families in Egyptian and Yemeni pregnant women (68.1 and 47.5%, respectively). Increased parity and lack of iron supplementation during pregnancy increase the risk of anemia among both studied groups There were significant relationships between pregnant women without anemia and those with anemia regarding dietary habits and other hematological values. Conclusion and recommendations The prevalence of iron deficiency is high among pregnant women, and the results of the present study could aid in the development of an IDA program that emphasizes iron supplementation and improved diet, including the consumption of iron-rich diet, among pregnant women in Egypt and Yemen. It should also encourage women for antenatal care during pregnancy.

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