Population Action International

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Nutritional Anemia in Pregnancy

The Reproductive Risk Index ranks countries by the prevalence of anemia, from Low (less than 20 percent of women affected) to Very High (60 percent or more affected).

Of the 133 countries in the Index, 29 countries fall in the Very High category, and other 46 countries are classified as High, with between 40 and 60 percent of women suffering from anemia.

Iron-deficiency anemia is the most prevalent micronutrient deficiency in the world today. It is especially common in women of reproductive age and particularly during pregnancy.

The prevalence of anemia varies greatly among and within countries and is often related to poverty. By some estimates, levels among pregnant women reach 70 percent in South Asia. In sub-Saharan Africa outside of South Africa they exceed 40 percent. Latin America fares better, and the problem is generally rare in industrialized nations. Yet anemia can easily be treated with oral iron supplements.

Anemia often develops among girls in adolescence due to poor nutrition and the demands of growth and menstruation. Pregnancy and breastfeeding further increase the nutritional demands placed on women, many of whom begin pregnancy with low reserves of nutrients.

Anemia in pregnancy contributes to maternal death and disability, premature births, low birth weight and fetal impairment. The resultant reduction in women’s productivity places an economic burden on their families, communities and societies.

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