Title: Intestinal Parasitic Infestation in Anaemic and Non-Anaemic Pregnant Women –A Comparative Study
Authors: Dr Shikha Asrani, Dr V. Joshi
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v7i9.125
Abstract
Objective: To detect and compare the prevalence of intestinal helminthic infestation between anaemic and non-anaemic pregnant women.
Background: Anaemia is the commonest of nutritional problems worldwide, which is an indirect cause for the high maternal mortality. With this in backdrop, this study was conducted among antenatal patients who had come for check-up in Kamala Raja hospital to find out the prevalence of worm infestation and anaemia and their association.
Material and Methods: Comparative study done in 1000 pregnant women attending antenatal clinic or admitted in Kamla Raja Hospital, in 2 groups- anaemic pregnant women and non anaemic pregnant women. Both group of women during the study period of one and half year were interviewed. The reports of their stool and CBC examination were followed up.
Results: This study was conducted in 1000 pregnant women attending Kamla Raja hospital. Out of the total pregnant women 62.4% were found to be anaemic. Microcytic hypochromic anaemia was found to be the most common. Prevalence of both groups of parasites was found to be higher in anaemic pregnant women (Helminthic parasites 5.3%, protozoal parasites 22.4%) than in non-anaemic pregnant women (Helminthic parasites 1.1%, protozoal parasites 11.1%) and this difference was found to be statistically significant. Usage of sanitary toilets, hand washing before meals was significantly higher in non-anaemic group.
Conclusion: The present study concludes that the intestinal parasitic infestation in pregnancy significantly contributes to anaemia.
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