A STUDY ON NUTRITIONAL STATUS, DIETARY HABITS AND SUPPLEMENTATION COMPLIANCE AMONG ANTENATAL MOTHERS ATTENDING AN URBAN PRIMARY HEALTH CENTRE IN KARNATAKA

Abstract

Maternal risk factors such as anemia, abnormal body mass index (BMI), pregnancy-induced hypertension and gestational diabetes mellitus continue to adversely influence pregnancy outcomes in India despite improved antenatal coverage.

Objectives: To identify common maternal risk factors among antenatal mothers and to assess their association with selected clinical parameters.

Methods: A Community based cross-sectional study was conducted using antenatal screening records of 61 pregnant women who attended an antenatal health check-up camp at an urban primary health centre in Karnataka. Data on socio-demographic variables, hemoglobin status, BMI, blood pressure and random blood sugar were extracted using a structured proforma. Descriptive statistics and the chi-square test were used to analyze the data. Findings: Of the 61 expectant mothers, 36.1% had mild anemia and 49.2% had moderate to severe anemia.

Results: Among the 61 expectant mothers, 36.1% had mild anemia and 49.2% had moderate to severe anemia. Nearly half (47.5%) were obese, while 16.4% were underweight. Raised blood pressure suggestive of pregnancy-induced hypertension was observed in 6.6% of mothers. Abnormal blood sugar levels were detected in 9.8%, including suspected gestational diabetes and overt diabetes. A statistically significant association was found between BMI category and anemia status (p<0.05), whereas associations between BMI and hypertension or diabetes were not significant.

Conclusion: The study highlights a high burden of preventable maternal risk factors, particularly anemia and abnormal BMI. Strengthening routine antenatal screening, nutritional counseling and early referral can improve maternal and fetal outcomes.