Published in PLOS One on 2026-08-05, this study is presented as an attributed evidence briefing. The excerpts below are the original researchers’ words, reproduced under their Creative Commons Attribution licence. Health Signal has selected the abstract and, where needed, opening background paragraphs; the complete methods, results, limitations and references remain in the linked paper.
Original authors: Kedir Dendir, Desalegn Fente, Zemenu Tamir, Moges Wordofa, Abush Getaneh, Tigist Getahun, Mehari Meles, Chala Besha, Wossene Habtu, Yoseph Tolcha
Source: PLOS One • DOI 10.1371/journal.pone.0355295
Read the complete primary study ↗ · Creative Commons Attribution licence
From the researchers
Abstract
Iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy is a major global health concern, responsible for approximately 50% of anemia cases worldwide. A prospective, institution-based, cross-sectional study was conducted from April to May 2024 among 170 first antenatal care attendees at Selam Health Centre in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Structured questionnaires were used to collect demographic and pregnancy-related data, and blood samples were taken to measure ferritin and hemoglobin levels using specific analyzers, following ethical consent. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27, with factors associated with iron deficiency anemia assessed through multivariate logistic regression, considering a p-value below 0.05 as statistically significant. The assessment documented in this research determined that the prevalence of anemia was determined 9.4% (16/170) have a mean Hgb level <11g/dl of, with a specific focus on iron deficiency anemia, which affected 4.1%(7/170) of the participants which have a ferritin level <15µg/l. Iron-deficiency anemia was significantly associated with lower mid-upper arm circumference (AOR = 8.33, 95% CI; 1.23-56.33, P = 0.03), less meal frequency per day (AOR = 5.53, 95% CI; 1.83–36.72, P = 0.046), and dietary diversity score less than five (AOR=7.12, 95% CI; 1-50.71, P = 0.04). In conclusion, our investigation revealed a low prevalence of iron deficiency anemia. Despite this, factors such as low mid-upper arm circumference, poor dietary diversity, and reduced meal frequency were noted. We recommend educating pregnant mothers on nutrition, and conducting community-based research to further understand these factors.
Introduction
Iron is essential for hemoglobin synthesis, enabling oxygen transport. It undergoes absorption, transport, utilization, and storage, with losses balanced by intestinal absorption. Most iron recycling occurs in the spleen, supporting red blood cell production [1,2].
Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) arises from poor intake, absorption, or blood loss, affecting maternal health, especially during pregnancy when iron needs increase. Hepcidin regulates iron metabolism, and imbalances can lead to anemia. IDA symptoms include fatigue, weakness, and cognitive issues, impacting maternal and fetal well-being [3,4].
Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a leading global health concern for women, affecting over two billion people, especially pregnant women. It accounts for nearly 50% of anemia cases worldwide. IDA prevalence varies, with higher rates in low-income countries compared to industrialized nations [5]. In Ethiopia, anemia affects 29% of pregnant women, with IDA contributing significantly [6]. Poor iron stores at conception and increased pregnancy demands exacerbate the issue. This study aims to address gaps in lack of a recent data, assess IDA prevalence, and identify contributing factors to improve maternal care and health policies. Furthermore, most previous studies have not adequately addressed the sociodemographic determinants of IDA in urban health centers such as Selam Health Center, Addis Ababa [7–9]. This study therefore aims to fill this gap by examining both the magnitude and determinants of IDA among first ANC attendees.
Reading this evidence
Use the full paper to check the study design, participant selection, comparator and outcome definitions before drawing a practical conclusion. An association does not by itself show cause and effect. A reported performance measure needs its denominator and uncertainty. A finding from a particular facility, sample or time period should retain that scope when it is discussed elsewhere.
This briefing makes the source accessible within the wider public health desk. It does not assess an individual patient or certify a product. When considering relevance to another health system, examine the original authors’ account of context and limitations, then seek local implementation evidence. The related reporting below provides other studies to read alongside this one; it is a topic connection, rather than a claim that their results are directly comparable.
© 2026 Kedir Dendir, Desalegn Fente, Zemenu Tamir, Moges Wordofa, Abush Getaneh, Tigist Getahun, Mehari Meles, Chala Besha, Wossene Habtu, Yoseph Tolcha. Excerpts reproduced under CC BY. Selection, formatting and contextual notes by Health Signal. The researchers are the authors of the source study, not members of Health Signal’s staff.
Explore connected evidence
- Evidence brief: Red blood cell indices versus serum ferritin as surrogate markers of iron deficiency during pregnancy
- Evidence brief: Anemia and associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care in public health facilities of Garowe City, Puntland, Somalia
- Evidence brief: Anemia among HIV‑positive women in LMICs: Multilevel analysis of recent DHS survey
