Prevalence and trend of anaemia and haemoglobinopathy among pregnant indigenous women in Kuala Kangsar, Perak: A retrospective observational study

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Anaemia during pregnancy is a global health concern, particularly among indigenous populations such as the Orang Asli (OA) in Malaysia. Haemoglobinopathies further exacerbate this issue. This study aimed to examine the prevalence of anaemia and haemoglobinopathy and its associated factors among pregnant OA women.
Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted among pregnant OA women in Kuala Kangsar, Malaysia. Medical records from 2018 to 2022 were reviewed using a standardised data collection form. Women who were lost to follow-up, had transferred care or had pregnancies ending at or before 24 weeks of gestation were excluded. Descriptive analysis, trend analysis and multivariable logistic regression were performed.
Results: A total of 766 women were included. The prevalence of anaemia during pregnancy was 44.6%, with 9.4% of the cases occurring before delivery. Haemoglobinopathy was identified in 22.7% of the cohort, with a significant increase observed over 5 years. The most common haemoglobinopathy was heterozygous haemoglobin E (HbE) (14.2%), followed by homozygous HbE (6.5%). HbE homozygous status and parenteral iron dextran use were significantly associated with anaemia before delivery.
Conclusion: Anaemia and haemoglobinopathy are highly prevalent among pregnant OA women. Identifying their associated factors is crucial for the development of early screening programmes and appropriate management strategies to improve maternal and foetal health outcomes.