KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND BEHAVIOR OF PREGNANT WOMEN IN PREVENTING IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA

Abstract

Anemia in pregnancy is a challenge in modern global health, especially in developing countries. The research aims to study knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of pregnant women to prevent iron deficiency anemia. Using qualitative research, a
survey of pregnant patients and gynecologists was conducted in several maternity homes in Tbilisi through a semi-structured in-depth interview. The study showed that almost all pregnant women had some knowledge about iron deficiency anemia. However, despite high awareness, most pregnant women are unaware of the causes and risk factors of anemia. Despite being aware of a healthy diet, the respondents did not follow a proper diet. Financial problems in order to buy food, also cultural and religious barriers were mentioned as one of the obstacles to healthy eating. Most pregnant women receive information about iron deficiency anemia from their family doctor, which suggests a limited role for the family doctor in preventing iron deficiency anemia. Despite some knowledge about anemia prevention, its prevalence remains high, indicating a weak link between anemia knowledge and healthy behavior. In order to solve the problem, more involvement of society and effective interventions of policymakers, improvement of disease prevention methods, more participation of family doctors, and improvement of state nutritional programs for pregnant women are needed.