Multiple contributors to iron deficiency and anemia in Senegal.

摘要

A cross-sectional study of 480 pregnant women in their 2nd trimester was conducted in Senegal's capital, Dakar, in order to investigate the relationship between parasitological, dietary and genetic factors, and anaemia status and aetiology. 80 women were selected from each of 6 health centres. 39% of women were anaemic and 12-13% of the women had a parasitic infection. Daily haem Fe was reported in 35% of women, but intake amounts were low. Intakes of Fe inhibitors were frequent. Mean haemoglobin and serum ferritin levels were significantly higher, and erythrocyte protoporphyrin levels were lower, in women who consumed Fe inhibitors less frequently. It is suggested that these results could lead to improvements in the current antenatal program in Senegal and similar W. African countries. Education about dietary Fe inhibitors and encouragement of patient compliance may be significant contributors to reducing anaemia during pregnancy.