Anaemia prevalence among pregnant women in Ghana's Sekyere East District reached 37.42% in 2025, marking a consistent increase over the past five years. This significant rise occurred despite a one-third decrease in antenatal care registrations since 2021.
District health authorities expressed deep concern about this trend during their 2025 Annual Performance Review. They highlight it as one of the district's most pressing public health challenges. The growing proportion of anaemic pregnant women points to potential issues with maternal nutrition and access to vital health services.
This situation reflects a broader challenge within Ghana's public healthcare system, particularly in rural areas. Adequate maternal health is crucial for national development indicators and a healthy workforce. Persistent health issues like anaemia can strain healthcare resources and impact future generations' cognitive development.
Dr. Justice Ofori-Amoah, the District Health Director, stated that anaemia among pregnant women at 36 weeks of pregnancy has increased consistently. He noted that the rate rose from 27.93% in 2021 to 37.42% in 2025. Registrations for antenatal care, however, dropped from 1,579 in 2021 to 1,061 in 2025.
The increasing anaemia rate indicates that more than one in three pregnant women attending antenatal care is anaemic. This trend suggests existing interventions may not be fully effective or reaching all pregnant women. Stakeholders, including traditional leaders, have agreed on encouraging pregnant women to consume local iron-rich foods. They are also piloting the use of Iron III polymers in some health facilities.
Despite these efforts, Dr. Ofori-Amoah noted some pregnant women do not take prescribed medication after leaving health facilities. He also reported that some women do not attend antenatal care services at all. This lack of compliance and attendance complicates efforts to manage and reduce anaemia.
Nana Kweku Adjei Juma II, Chief of Nsutem, emphasized the importance of family support. He urged husbands and family members to encourage pregnant women to attend antenatal care and adhere to medication. The chief also advised consuming local foods like 'kontomire' (cocoyam leaves), mushrooms, and snails for their iron content.
The consistent rise in anaemia, coupled with falling antenatal registrations, suggests a need for targeted public health campaigns. These campaigns should focus on nutritional education, medication adherence, and the importance of early and regular clinic visits. Addressing these challenges is vital for improving maternal and child health outcomes in the district.
Failure to reverse this trend could lead to higher maternal mortality rates and adverse birth outcomes. It could also increase the burden on an already stretched public health system. Policymakers and health officials must prioritize robust, community-centered interventions to safeguard the health of pregnant women.