Health

Reasons 58% of Pregnant Women in Nigeria Experience Anemia, NGO Reports

Published by Tope Fakinlede on October 13th, 2024.

Reasons 58% of Pregnant Women in Nigeria Experience Anemia, NGO Reports

A recent report from the non-governmental organization Alive and Thrive reveals that approximately 58% of pregnant women in Nigeria are affected by anemia, a condition that significantly contributes to maternal and child mortality rates.

During a two-day media dialogue in Kano focused on Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS), Dr. Auwalu Kawu, the organization’s Senior Technical Adviser on Behavior Change Communication, highlighted findings from the latest Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) conducted between 2018 and 2024.

Dr. Kawu emphasized the importance of MMS in preventing complications during pregnancy caused by nutritional deficiencies. He noted that the Federal Government, in partnership with state authorities, is dedicated to enhancing maternal health, particularly during pregnancy, and is committed to distributing MMS to all expectant mothers across the country.

“This period is critical, especially in addressing maternal mortality during pregnancy. We have observed that, in addition to anemia, pregnant women face multiple nutritional deficiencies. MMS contains 15 essential nutrients vital for ensuring safe deliveries and healthy babies,” he stated.

He further explained that the interactive session with the media aims to foster collaboration in promoting awareness about MMS. “MMS is a key solution for combating anemia. Traditionally, women received Iron Folic Acid (IFA) supplements, but MMS complements this by providing an additional 12 nutrients that enhance overall health and help mitigate complications related to nutritional deficiencies.”

Dr. Kawu reiterated that the national anemia rate among pregnant women remains at about 58%, but the introduction of MMS is expected to bridge this gap effectively.

Additionally, Stephanie Dada, Deputy Country Director (Programs) at Alive and Thrive, underscored the significance of raising awareness among media professionals to encourage pregnant women to utilize MMS at health facilities to help reduce maternal mortality rates.