Anemia in Pregnancy: A Cross-sectional Study of Awareness Dietary Habits and Supplementation Compliance with Comparative Insights

Aims and background: Anemia during pregnancy (ADP) remains a major public health concern in India despite longstanding iron-folic acid (IFA) supplementation programs.Poor adherence and inadequate dietary practices continue to limit program effectiveness.This study assessed pregnant women's knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) related to anemia, iron-rich diet, and IFA supplementation, and examined the association of these factors and sociodemographic variables with maternal hemoglobin (Hb) levels.Materials and methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 anemic pregnant women attending a secondary-care government hospital in Hyderabad, India, between November 2023 and August 2024.Data were collected using the validated Anemia in Pregnancy Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Questionnaire (ADPKAPQ).Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v28.0, applying descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, independent t-tests, Pearson correlation, and multiple linear regression.Results: Awareness of ADP was reported by 50% of participants, while 55% identified inadequate iron intake as a cause.Knowledge of symptoms and consequences was limited; 70% were unaware of fetal risks.Although 95% reported consuming some supplements, adherence specifically to IFA tablets was only 8%.Education level was significantly associated with Hb awareness (χ² = 20.87,p < 0.001), and trimester was associated with awareness of critical Hb levels (χ² = 9.87, p < 0.01).Frequent tea/coffee intake and pica practices were commonly reported.Conclusion: A clear gap exists between awareness and the implementation of effective preventive practices for maternal anemia.Improved antenatal education and culturally appropriate nutritional counseling are needed to enhance IFA adherence and dietary behavior.Clinical significance: Strengthening behavior-focused antenatal interventions can improve maternal Hb status and help reduce adverse maternal and fetal outcomes associated with Anemia in pregnancy.