Sociodemographic and Dietary Determinants of Anaemia Among Pregnant Women in Taraba State: An Empirical Investigation

Anaemia during pregnancy is a major contributor to maternal mortality, preterm birth, and low birth weight in Nigeria, particularly in resource-constrained states of the North East geopolitical zone. Despite national iron supplementation policies, anaemia prevalence remains high among pregnant women in Taraba State. This study empirically investigated sociodemographic and dietary determinants of anaemia among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Taraba State, North East Nigeria. A cross-sectional analytical design was used, recruiting 350 pregnant women in their second or third trimester from eight health facilities across four local government areas. Anaemia status was determined through blood haemoglobin assessment using a calibrated HaemoCue device. Dietary intake was evaluated with a validated 24-hour dietary recall, and dietary diversity scores were calculated. Structured questionnaires captured sociodemographic and obstetric data. Logistic regression analysis identified determinants of anaemia risk. Results showed an anaemia prevalence of 56 percent. Dietary diversity score below the minimum acceptable threshold, low household income, multigravida status, and non-adherence to iron-folate supplementation were significant independent risk factors. Higher maternal education and urban residence were protective factors. The study recommends integrated antenatal care strategies combining dietary counselling, iron supplementation adherence support, and micronutrient-rich food promotion in Taraba State. Keywords: anaemia, pregnancy, dietary determinants, Taraba State, iron deficiency