Dietary Practices, Obstetric Characteristics and Serum Micronutrient Status of Pregnant Women in Ondo State, Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study
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Abstract
Background: Maternal micronutrient deficiencies remain a major public health concern globally. This study assessed dietary practices, obstetric characteristics and serum micronutrient status among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in selected sub-urban communities of Ondo State, Nigeria.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 433 pregnant women attending primary health care facilities across selected local government areas in Ondo State. Data were collected using a validated interviewer-administered questionnaire. Dietary diversity was assessed using the Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women (MDD-W) questionnaire. Venous blood samples were collected for the determination of haemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume (PCV) and serum micronutrient levels including retinol, folate, zinc, selenium, iron and copper. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests at a significance level of p < 0.05.
Results: Majority of respondents were aged 20–29 years (64.2%), 81.3% reported receiving nutrition education during while nearly half (48.0%) were in their second trimester. More than half (52.4%) had good dietary practices, 65.4% achieved adequate dietary diversity. Anaemia prevalence was 54.7% and deficiencies were observed in retinol (52.7%), selenium (75.1%), copper (70.7%), iron (41.1%). zinc (27.9%) and folate (3.2%). Significant associations were observed between age and serum iron (p < 0.001), zinc (p = 0.001) and copper levels (p = 0.001). Dietary diversity was significantly associated with serum copper status (p = 0.047) while folate status insignificant (p = 0.055).
Conclusion: Dietary practices and diversity were relatively optimal, multiple micronutrient deficiencies remain significant public health concern. Nutrition education combined with improved access to micronutrient-rich foods, routine nutritional screening, and targeted supplementation programmes to improve maternal and foetal health outcomes are needed
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