A Cross-sectional Analysis on Anemia, Hemoglobin Level, and Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate in Pregnant Women in Gilgit–Baltistan, Pakistan

Objective: The present study was designed to study the prevalence of anemia, hemoglobin level, gestationalage, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate in pregnant women of Gilgit-Baltistan, to determine the factors, andrecommend intervention strategies to reduce this health problem in the female population of reproductive agein Gilgit-Baltistan and in similar conditions.Study Design: Cross-sectional analytical study.Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), Pakistan from March 2021 toMarch 2022.Methods: A total of 330 pregnant women from various parts of the region, including Gilgit city, Juglot, Naltar,Nomal, and Hunza, were enrolled. Hemoglobin level was measured with an automated cell counter (Sysmex K-21), and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate was determined by the Westergren method. The gestational agewas determined from the last menstrual period, later confirmed by ultrasonography.Results: A significant proportion of pregnant women who presented with anemia were in their third trimester.The prevalence of anemia was found to vary across age groups. The highest prevalence (30%) was observed inthe 37-40 years age group. In contrast, a lower prevalence (10.25%) was recorded among women aged 32-36years. A positive correlation between gestational age and ESR and an inverse relationship between hemoglobinconcentration and ESR were observed.Conclusion: Anemia was identified as a moderate public health problem among pregnant women in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, with a prevalence of 30% among those aged 37–40 years. Both hemoglobin concentration andgestational age were found to be important factors that correlate with an elevated erythrocyte sedimentationrate. How to cite this: Akbar Z, Khan A, Akram Z, Razza M, Lone NZ. A Cross-sectional Analysis on Anemia, Hemoglobin Level, and Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate in Pregnant Women in Gilgit–Baltistan, Pakistan. Life and Science. 2025; 6(4): 577-583. doi: http://doi.org/10.37185/LnS.1.1.854