International journal of food sciences and nutrition
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The prevalence, causes and role of iron prophylaxis in pregnant women was studied. All women delivered at the National University Hospital, Singapore in 1993 had their haemoglobin estimated. If it was less than 11 g/dl, blood was taken for serum iron, ferritin, transferrin, red cell zinc protoporphyrin, serum folate, vitamin B12 and thalassemia screen to establish cause of anaemia. ⋯ A 55% reduction in odds of anaemia was estimated per 1 gm% increase in haemoglobin at booking. Prophylactic antenatal iron supplements not only prevent a fall but also improved haemoglobin levels during pregnancy. Those who were not on any iron supplements were 11 times more likely to develop anaemia in the present pregnancy.