Factors Contributing To Anemia Among Antenatal Mothers In Garissa County, Kenya

Abstract

The objective of the study was to determine factors contributing to anemia among antenatal

mothers in Garissa County, Kenya.

It was a cross-sectional study carried out in the study area and one hundred respondents were

interviewed and the majority (62%) were in the age group between 18-27 years with 95%

married and the major religion being Islam.

The study finding shows that 54% and 12% had moderate and severe anemia respectively with

38% having a positive malaria parasite on slide examination and anaemia was common in the

second and third trimester, 42%.

Poverty and illiteracy was at an alarming rate as most of the respondents (82%) had no formal

education while 83% had no major source of income.

Most of respondents, 98% received ferrous and folate supplements and insecticide treated nets (52%) during their antenatal visits and net use rate stood at 69%.