Prevalencia de anemia en Gestantes que acuden al Hospital Matilde Hidalgo de Procel de la ciudad de Guayaquil en el periodo de marzo a agosto 2024.

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of anemia in pregnant women attending the Matilde Hidalgo de Procel Hospital in Guayaquil during the period from March to August 2024, as well as to identify associated factors and sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of the population. Methods: An observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 460 pregnant women diagnosed with anemia, selected according to established inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data collection included clinical-nutritional history, anthropometric evaluation, hemoglobin measurement, and nutritional status classification according to BMI. Variables such as age, gestational trimester, and prenatal care were analyzed. Results: The mean age was 25.9 years (range 11–62), with a predominance of the 20–34-year age group (58.6%), followed by adolescents (<20 years) and women >35 years. Most participants were in the third trimester (97.0%), with 2.5% in the second and 0.2% in the first trimester. The average gestational age was 37.6 weeks, highest among adolescents (37.96). Regarding nutritional status, 19.1% had normal weight, 49.2% were overweight, and 31.7% were obese. Height was predominantly 150–159 cm (50.8%), and weight exceeded 75 kg in 37.5% of cases. Most anemia cases were classified as mild (according to clinical records). Conclusion: Anemia in pregnancy remains a prevalent problem in the studied population, with higher risk in adolescents, women in advanced pregnancy stages, and those with overweight or obesity. Strengthening iron and folic acid supplementation, improving nutritional education, and ensuring timely prenatal check-ups are recommended to reduce prevalence and associated maternal-fetal complications.