KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES, AND PRACTICES RELATED TO ANEMIA PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN IN A TERTIARY CARE SETTING LAHORE

Abstract

Background: Anemia during pregnancy remains a major public health problem and is associated with increased maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Adequate knowledge, positive attitudes, and appropriate preventive practices among pregnant women are essential for reducing the burden of anemia and improving pregnancy outcomes. Assessing these factors provides evidence for developing effective maternal health education and nutrition interventions.

Aim: To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to anemia prevention and management among pregnant women attending a tertiary care hospital.

Methods: A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic of a tertiary care hospital. Participants were selected using a convenience sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured, pretested questionnaire comprising demographic characteristics and knowledge, attitude, and practice domains. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 29. Descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation, and multiple linear regression analyses were performed. Statistical significance was set at p < .05.

Results: The findings showed that participants had good knowledge (M = 3.97 ± 0.67), positive attitudes (M = 3.99 ± 0.47), and satisfactory practices (M = 3.98 ± 0.61) regarding anemia prevention and management. Most participants recognized the importance of iron-rich diets, iron and folic acid supplementation, and regular antenatal care. Lower practice scores were observed for avoiding tea and coffee after meals, indicating an area requiring additional health education.

Conclusion: Pregnant women demonstrated satisfactory knowledge, positive attitudes, and appropriate practices regarding anemia prevention and management. Continuous antenatal education, nutritional counseling, and community awareness programs are recommended to address remaining knowledge gaps and strengthen preventive behaviors, ultimately improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes.