Anemia and Thrombocytopenia Among Pregnant Women in Al-Khums City – Libya
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59743/jbs.v39i1.346Keywords:
Anemia, Thrombocytopenia, Pregnancy, Hemoglobin, Al KhumsAbstract
Anemia and thrombocytopenia are common hematological disorders during pregnancy and are associated with adverse maternal and fetal outcomes, particularly in developing countries. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of anemia and thrombocytopenia among pregnant women in Al Khums city, Libya, and to examine the relationship between hemoglobin levels and selected reproductive variables.A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on a random sample of 80 pregnant women aged 17–47 years attending healthcare facilities in Al Khums. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire in addition to reviewing medical records and laboratory investigations, including hemoglobin concentration, platelet count, and iron levels. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software version 26, and Pearson’s correlation test was applied to assess associations between variables.The results showed that women aged 29–34 years constituted the largest age group (32.5%). A very high prevalence of anemia was observed, with all participants exhibiting varying degrees of severity; mild anemia was the most common form (58.8%), followed by moderate (30.0%) and severe anemia (11.3%). Most anemia cases were of recent onset (77.5%). Platelet counts were generally within the normal range, with values between 201–250 ×10³/µL being the most frequently recorded (23.8%). A statistically significant positive correlation was found between hemoglobin levels and the number of previous deliveries (p = 0.006).In conclusion, anemia—particularly mild anemia—represents a major public health concern among pregnant women in Al Khums city, whereas thrombocytopenia appears to be less prevalent.
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