(P27-001-25) Prevalence and Determinants of Postpartum Anemia in Kumasi Ghana

Objectives: Anemia commonly affects women of reproductive age in developing countries, particularly after childbirth. The postpartum period demands increased nutrition due to tissue repair, blood loss during delivery, breastfeeding, and hormonal changes. This study evaluated postpartum anemia prevalence among new mothers in Kumasi, Ghana, examining relationships between maternal diet quality, food security, and anemia risk.

Methods: This cross-sectional study conducted in Kumasi, Ghana, involved 104 exclusively breastfeeding women with babies aged ≥1 week but ≤ 6months. Participants were recruited by a simple random sampling. Data on socio-demographics and obstetric history were collected using structured questionnaires, while dietary diversity and food security were assessed using standard questionnaires. Maternal hemoglobin(Hb) levels were measured using the Urit Hemoglobin Analysis Tester Meter. Descriptive analysis, Chi-Square Test of Goodness Fit and Chi- Square Test of Independence were conducted.

Results: Descriptive analysis showed that 54.8% of mothers met the minimum dietary diversity for women (MDD-W). While 56.7% had high food security, 37.5% were food insecure - with higher rates in suburban areas and among those with monthly incomes (below 500 cedis /$35). Food insecurity was nearly twice as common in mothers who did not meet MDD-W compared to those who did. Regarding anemia, 51.9% of mothers showed varying levels of anemia, while 48.1% had normal Hb concentrations. Low rates of anemia were recorded among mothers living in urban areas than their counterparts in sub-urban areas. The rate of anemia was lower among mothers who had their child by vaginal birth than by cesarean section. Despite high rates of anemia, mothers who were food insecure, or anemic were less than expected (p < 0.001). Anemia among mothers with high food security was less than expected, while more food insecure mothers had anemia. Although the study did not have enough evidence to prove any association between anemia, food security and the MDD-W, the study highlights the need for further studies to investigate these associations.

Conclusions: The results of this study indicate a high rate of PPA among mothers in Kumasi.

Funding Sources: The study did not receive any funding.