Impact of Education and Nutritional Intervention on Haemoglobin Levels Among Anaemic Pregnant Women: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Background: Anemia during pregnancy remains a major public health challenge, particularly in developing countries like India, where nutritional deficiencies, poor dietary habits, and limited access to antenatal care contribute to high prevalence rates. Anemia is associated with increased maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality, yet remains preventable with timely and effective interventions.

Objective: To assess the impact of a structured nutritional intervention on haemoglobin levels among anemic pregnant women and to examine the socio-demographic and clinical factors influencing anemia status and intervention outcomes.

Methods: A total of 3500 pregnant women were enrolled in this observational study. Of these, 1000 were identified as anemic (haemoglobin <11g/dL) and were equally divided into a control group (n=500) and an intervention group (n=500). The intervention group received iron supplementation along with dietary and lifestyle guidance. Haemoglobin levels were recorded during the first trimester, at mid-pregnancy, and at the time of delivery. Demographic variables, BMI, dietary patterns, obstetric history, and previous anemia history were collected and analyzed.

Results: At baseline, both groups had comparable mean haemoglobin levels (control: 7.47 ± 0.87 g/dL; intervention: 7.48 ± 0.89 g/dL; p=0.8458). By mid-pregnancy, the intervention group showed a significant improvement (8.48 ± 1.0 g/dL) compared to the control group (7.70 ± 0.23 g/dL; p=0.0001). At delivery, haemoglobin further increased in the intervention group (9.48 ± 2.0 g/dL) versus the control (7.97 ± 0.50 g/dL; p=0.0001). Improvement in haemoglobin levels was also associated with higher compliance to the intervention and iron intake. Demographic analysis showed that anemia was more prevalent among women with lower education, non-vegetarian diets, and a history of previous pregnancy complications.

Conclusion: The study demonstrates that structured nutritional and iron-based interventions significantly improve haemoglobin levels among anemic pregnant women. Early detection and targeted management, along with consideration of socio-demographic factors, can help reduce the burden of anemia and its associated risks in pregnancy. These findings support the integration of such interventions into routine antenatal care programs.