Anemia in Early Pregnancy: Screening, Prevention, and Treatment

Anemia in early pregnancy (EPA) is a prevalent and significant public health issue that poses serious risks to both maternal and fetal health. Characterized by hemoglobin levels below 11 g/dL, EPA is often caused by nutritional deficiencies, chronic illnesses, and genetic factors. The condition can lead to adverse outcomes, including preterm delivery, low birth weight, and increased maternal morbidity. Early detection through routine screening and the implementation of targeted interventions are critical to mitigating these risks. Prevention strategies for EPA primarily focus on addressing nutritional deficits through dietary modifications, iron and folic acid supplementation, and large-scale food fortification programs. Community-based education further empowers women to make informed decisions about their health. For treatment, approaches are tailored based on anemia etiology and severity, ranging from oral and intravenous iron therapy for iron deficiency anemia to advanced treatments for genetic and chronic disease-related anemia.