Hookworm and Anaemia in Pregnancy
Author Information
Author(s): Simon Brooker, Peter J. Hotez, Donald A. P. Bundy
Primary Institution: London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
Hypothesis
Is hookworm infection a significant risk factor for anaemia among pregnant women?
Conclusion
Increasing hookworm infection intensity is associated with lower haemoglobin levels in pregnant women in poor countries.
Supporting Evidence
- Hookworm infection is a major cause of anaemia in poor communities.
- Approximately 6.9 million pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa are infected with hookworm.
- Heavy hookworm infection is significantly associated with lower haemoglobin levels.
Takeaway
Pregnant women with hookworm infections have lower blood levels, which can make them very sick. We need to help them get treated.
Methodology
A systematic review of studies on hookworm infection and anaemia in pregnant women, including structured searches and data extraction.
Potential Biases
Slight evidence of publication bias and potential confounding by socio-economic status.
Limitations
Insufficient data to quantify the benefits of deworming and potential confounding factors affecting anaemia.
Participant Demographics
Pregnant women of reproductive age in sub-Saharan Africa.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.008
Confidence Interval
−0.36 to −0.13
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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