Association of Maternal Age, Gravida, Birth Interval, Body Mass Index, and Mid-Upper Arm Circumference with Anemia in Pregnant Women

Abstract

Anemia in pregnancy remains a major public health problem that contributes to maternal and neonatal morbidity. This study aimed to identify determinant factors associated with pregnancy anemia. A cross-sectional design was conducted among 40 pregnant women, with data collected on maternal age, gestational age, gravida, pregnancy spacing, antenatal care (ANC) visits, nutritional status including body mass index (BMI) and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), iron supplementation, dietary habits, and socioeconomic characteristics. Hemoglobin levels were measured to classify anemia status, and statistical associations were analyzed using Chi-Square, Fisher’s Exact, or Likelihood Ratio tests. The median maternal age was 30 years (range 20–41), BMI 26.2 kg/m² (range 16.7–42.1), MUAC 27.46 cm (range 21–55 cm), and hemoglobin 10.8 g/dL (range 8–12.9). The prevalence of anemia was 57.5%, with 47.5% mild and 10.0% moderate. Family income was significantly associated with anemia (p=0.01), with the highest prevalence (35.0%) among women earning Rp. 1,000,000–2,500,000 per month. Gravida status (p=0.07) and weekly consumption of coffee, tea, or chocolate (p=0.054) showed borderline associations, while maternal age, gestational age, ANC frequency, birth interval, BMI, and MUAC were not significantly associated. In conclusion, anemia affected more than half of the pregnant women studied, with socioeconomic status emerging as the most important determinant, highlighting the need for maternal health programs that address economic vulnerability and promote healthy nutrition.