Vitamin A Deficiency in Pregnant Women in Ethiopia
Author Information
Author(s): Mulu Andargachew, Kassu Afework, Huruy Kahsay, Tegene Birhanemeskel, Yitayaw Gashaw, Nakamori Masayo, Van Nhien Nguyen, Bekele Assegedech, Wondimhun Yared, Yamamoto Shigeru, Ota Fusao
Primary Institution: University of Gondar
Hypothesis
What is the level of serum vitamin A and vitamin A deficiency among pregnant women with and without HIV infection in Northwest Ethiopia?
Conclusion
Vitamin A deficiency is a significant public health issue among pregnant women in Northwest Ethiopia, regardless of HIV status.
Supporting Evidence
- 18.4% of pregnant women were found to be vitamin A deficient.
- HIV positive pregnant women had significantly lower serum vitamin A levels compared to HIV negative pregnant women.
- 46.7% of non-pregnant women with HIV infection were vitamin A deficient.
Takeaway
Many pregnant women in Ethiopia don't have enough vitamin A, which is important for their health and their babies' health.
Methodology
This cross-sectional study collected blood samples from 423 pregnant women and 55 healthy volunteers to measure serum vitamin A levels using high performance liquid chromatography.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the lack of control for acute phase responses and the small sample size of the control group.
Limitations
The study's findings may be influenced by the lack of precise reference values for vitamin A deficiency and the absence of measurements for acute phase response markers.
Participant Demographics
The mean age of pregnant women was 25.38 years, with 10.4% being HIV positive.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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