Knowledge, Attitude and Practice: Study Among Rural Antenatal Women Regarding Anemia, Iron-rich diet and iron supplement

Maternal nutrition at conception and during pregnancy influences the growth and potential development of the fetus and contributes to the maturity of a healthy baby. Anemia is one of the most common nutritional deficiency disorders affecting the pregnant women; the prevalence in developed countries is 14%, in developing countries 51%, and in India, it varies from 65% to 75%.The current study concluded that the studied pregnant women had good knowledge and positive attitudes but poor practice toward prevention and the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia. To address the issue of anemia, the health service sector needs to incorporate health promotion strategies that will positively impact the attitude and practice levels of population. Education should include antenatal care that focuses on intake of iron rich foods, iron supplementation and anti-helminths. Counseling and health education are important for pregnant women with anemia, to improve their knowledge, awareness and practice to prevent anemia Encourage pregnant women to practice intake iron-rich food and iron tablets during pregnancy in a proper way.