Title:Timely accessing of antenatal care and prevalence of vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies among pregnant women in a Nigerian population

Author:Benedict N Ndem, Euphoria C Akwiwu, Patience A Akpan, Josephine O Akpotuzor, Iya Eze Bassey, Idongesit K Isong and Eme E Onukak

Abstract:Objectives: Normal pregnancy is accompanied by increased physiologic requirements. Nutritional inadequacy during pregnancy carries the risk of poor pregnancy outcome, including anaemia. Among the leading causes of nutritional anaemia in pregnant women are deficiencies of both vitamin B12 and folate. This study assessed possible influence of timely registration of antenatal care on prevalence of folate and vitamin B12 deficiencies in a Nigerian population.
Methods: A structured questionnaire was utilized to obtain sociodemographic, obstetrics and supplement intake information among 180 study participants. Blood samples were collected from each participant for assays of Vitamin B12 and folate by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay methods and measurement of haemoglobin concentration by automation.
Results: This study observed 1.7% (3/180) folate deficiency, while the prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency was 21.7% (39/180). Generally, anaemia was observed in 47.8% (86/180) of the pregnant women. Less than a third (26.7%) of the studied population registered for antenatal care within the first trimester. The highest registration (53.3%) occurred during the second trimester. Greater percentages of folate and vitamin B12 deficiencies were observed in association with late registration for antenatal care.
Conclusion: Gestational anaemia still remains a challenge in Nigeria. The prevalence for vitamin B12 deficiency occurred 13 times more compared to folate deficiency. Vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies were observed more among pregnant women who registered late for antenatal care.
Key words: Pregnancy, anaemia, vitamin B12, folate.
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