Determination of hematological response to iron and folic acid supplementation among the expectant mothers attending Kakamega County Referral Hospital, Kenya

Background Despite iron and folic acid supplementation program among expectant mothers while attending antenatal care clinic at Kakamega County, the rates of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality due to anemia complications are still high.

Aim First, we determined changes in hematological profiles following iron and folic acid supplementation. Second, we determined association between hematological changes with demographic and clinical characteristics in response to iron and folic acid supplementation.

Patients and methods Full hemogram and reticulocyte profiles of 127 expectant mothers were determined at baseline and endpoint after 1 month of iron and folic acid supplementation. Full hemogram profiles were measured using a Maxim 3010 fully automated hematology analyzer, whereas reticulocyte profiles were examined microscopically at ×100 magnification. Demographic data were collected using pretested structured questionnaires.

Results The end point measures of red blood cells, hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit, mean cell volume, reticulocyte count, reticulocyte production index, and absolute reticulocyte number among the anemic mothers were significantly higher relative to baseline levels. Among nonanemic mothers, Hb and mean cell volume levels differed significantly between baseline and end point of the study. The change in erythropoietic response and adequate Hb response was significantly associated with adherence to iron and folic acid supplement.

Conclusion Hematological profiles significantly changed especially among anemic mothers following iron and folic acid supplementation. Adherence to supplement is associated with positive erythropoietic response and adequate Hb response.