Intestinal Helminthiasis in Pregnancy and Its Relationship with Maternal Hemoglobin Concentration in Rural Communities of Enugu State, South-East, Nigeria

Abstract Background: Intestinal helminthiasis (IH) in pregnancy is an important public health issue that depletes iron stores with poor maternal and neonatal outcomes. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of IH and its relationship with maternal haemoglobin (Hb) concentration among pregnant women in rural communities of Enugu state, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted among 405 pregnant women in rural primary health centres of Enugu State, Nigeria. Stool and blood were collected using screw-capped bottle with applicator and HemoCue photometer, respectively. Data were analysed using IBM Statistical Product and Service Solutions software version 25. Statistical test was set at 0.05. Results: The mean age of the participants was 28.3 ± 5.40. The prevalence of helminthiasis was 9.2% of which majority, 94.6% was of hookworm type. About four-fifth, 81.1% of helminth-infected pregnant women were anaemic compared to one-fifth and 12.3% of non-helminth infected pregnant women. The differences in the mean Hb concentration were significant ( t = −8.375, P < 0.0001). The risk of anaemia among helminth-infected pregnant women was 31 times. There was a significant strong negative correlation between helminthiasis count and haemoglobin concentration ( R = −0.833, P < 0.0001). Conclusion: Infected helminthiasis in pregnancy was sub-endemic with hookworm the most common. The risk of anaemia was higher among helminth-infected pregnant women. The relationship with anaemia was a strong negative correlation. Helminthiasis prevention should be strengthened in antenatal services.