Iron status in pregnant women in the Republic of Seychelles
Journal
Public Health Nutrition
Journal Volume
13
Journal Issue
3
Pages
331-337
Date Issued
2010
Author(s)
Duffy E.M.
Bonham M.P.
Wallace J.M.W.
Robson P.J.
Myers G.J.
Davidson P.W.
Clarkson T.W.
Shamlaye C.F.
Strain J.J.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To establish the Fe status of pregnant women and their neonates in the Republic of Seychelles. DESIGN: A prospective study. SETTING: Republic of Seychelles. SUBJECTS: Pregnant women were recruited and blood samples taken at enrolment and post-delivery along with cord blood samples. Ferritin and soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) were measured in maternal (n 220) and cord blood (n 123) samples. RESULTS: Maternal Fe deficiency (ferritin 28 nmol/l) was present in 6 % of subjects at enrolment and in 20 % at delivery. There was no significant decrease in maternal ferritin. A significant increase in sTfR was observed between enrolment and delivery (P < 0.001). Maternal BMI and use of Fe supplements at 28 weeks' gestation were associated with improved maternal Fe status at delivery, whereas parity had a negative effect on sTfR and ferritin at delivery. CONCLUSIONS: Fe status of pregnant Seychellois women was, on average, within normal ranges. The incidence of Fe deficiency throughout pregnancy in this population was similar to that in a Westernised population. Increased awareness of the importance of adequate Fe intake during pregnancy, particularly in multiparous women, is warranted.
SDGs
Type
journal article