Impact of maternal anemia on neonatal outcomes: low birth weight and neonatal anemia in Uganda

Abstract

Objectives: e Objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of anemia among women in their third trimester of pregnancy and establish its association with neonatal outcomes at Soroti Regional Referral hospital (SRRH). Material and Methods: is prospective cohort study enrolled 324 women in their third trimester at SRRH (June August 2025). Data on maternal and neonatal characteristics were collected via structured questionnaires and medical record review. Maternal venous blood and umbilical cord blood were collected at delivery and analyzed for hemoglobin using an automated hematology analyzer. Anemia was defined as hemoglobin < 0.001), and cesarean section (AOR = 2.82, 95% CI: 1.63–4.88, p < 0.001), which we conceptualize as an intermediate intervention-related event rather than a direct neonatal outcome. Conclusion: e findings demonstrate a high burden of maternal anemia, with a prevalence of 32.7%, and it is strongly associated with LBW and neonatal anemia. e association with cesarean section suggests that anemia may contribute to intrapartum complications requiring operative intervention. ese findings underscore the need for integrated screening, prevention, and management strategies to mitigate perinatal morbidity