Assessment of knowledge and preventive practices of pregnant women about iron deficiency anemia at Assuit city

Background: The most common single deficiency condition worldwide is iron insufficiency. By raising pregnant women's awareness of anemia and related preventive measures, efforts have been undertaken to lessen iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy. Aim: To assess pregnant women in Assuit city's knowledge about iron deficiency anemia and their preventative practices. Methods: This study used a descriptive cross-sectional research. Setting: The study was carried out in antenatal outpatient clinics in three key locations to encompass Assuit City (women's health hospital university, Al Mutaa Family Medicine Center, and Qolta MCH Center). Sample: about 350 pregnant women in their second and third trimesters who were attending antenatal outpatient clinics for follow-up. Tools: Structured interview questions and pregnant women's preventive practices were used. Results: Poor level of knowledge and unsatisfactory preventative actions related IDA were found in 59.4% and 58.9%, respectively, of the studied women. Conclusion: Most of the studied women had poor knowledge of iron deficiency anemia and unsatisfactory practices. Recommendations: Pregnant women should receive counseling and health education to improve their awareness and preventive practices regarding iron deficiency anemia.