Magnitude and determinants of anemia in the third trimester among pregnant women in Dodoma: An analytical cross-sectional study

Despite widespread efforts, anemia during pregnancy remains a significant indirect cause of maternal mortality in Tanzania. During the third trimester, anemia is more critical as it can increase the risk of complications for the mother and the fetus. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of anemia in the third trimester, its determinants, facility preparedness, and preventive services provided. A facility-based analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in the Dodoma region. Through a systematic sampling, 396 pregnant women in their third trimester were studied. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire, documentary review, hemoglobin measurement, and observation. Descriptive and inferential statistics using a binary logistic regression model were used to determine the predictors of anemia. The odds ratio and confidence interval were reported, and the significance level was set at P-value < .05. The prevalence of anemia among pregnant women in the third trimester was 33.3%. All facilities provided all the recommended anemia preventive services but were not well prepared for the provision of those services. The items that fell short in most of the facilities were FEFO and Mebendazole. There is a significant association between anemia and being in the age group of 15 to 24 years [adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 3.693, P = .025). The protective factors are being married (AOR: 0.408, P = .037), having college education level (AOR: 0.063, P = .00), more than 8 antenatal attendances visits (AOR: 0.311, P = .022), pregnancy interval of more than 2 years (AOR: 0.172, P < .001), having adequate knowledge (AOR: 0.392, P = .018) and positive attitude (AOR: 0.204, P = .015). The prevalence of anemia among pregnant women in the third trimester in Dodoma is alarming. All preventive services are provided, but not all facilities are prepared for the provision of anemia those services. Anaemia risk is increasing with the decrease of age. Protective factors vary from social, obstetric, knowledge, and attitude factors.