Association Between Third-Trimester Maternal Anemia and Low Birth Weight: A Prospective Cohort Study at Sikumana Primary Health Center

Abstract : Background: Maternal anemia remains one of the most common complications during pregnancy and continues to pose a significant public health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Reduced hemoglobin concentration during pregnancy may impair oxygen and nutrient transport from mother to fetus, potentially resulting in suboptimal fetal growth and adverse perinatal outcomes, including low birth weight. Objective: To evaluate the association between anemia in third-trimester pregnant women and the incidence of low birth weight among newborns at Sikumana Primary Health Center. Methods: This study employed an observational analytic design with a prospective cohort approach. A total of 50 third-trimester pregnant women and their newborns were enrolled. Maternal hemoglobin levels were measured using venous blood samples analyzed in the laboratory, while neonatal birth weight data were obtained from maternal and child health records or birth certificates. Data normality was assessed using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, and the relationship between maternal anemia and birth weight was analyzed using Pearson correlation. Results: The prevalence of anemia among third-trimester pregnant women was 36%, while the incidence of low birth weight was 40%. The most frequently observed erythrocyte morphologies were microcytic hypochromic and normocytic normochromic patterns. Statistical analysis demonstrated a significant association between maternal anemia and low birth weight (p = 0.032), with a moderate correlation strength (r = 0.304). Conclusion: Anemia in the third trimester of pregnancy was significantly associated with low birth weight among infants delivered at Sikumana Primary Health Center. Strengthening early detection and management of maternal anemia may contribute to improved neonatal outcomes.