Clinical Significance of Haematological Biomarkers in Identifying Anaemia Among Pregnant Women Attending Gweru Provincial Hospital for the Period 2024–2025

Abstract

Anaemia during pregnancy is a significant public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where it can result in severe maternal and neonatal complications. This study examines the clinical significance of haematological biomarkers haemoglobin (Hb), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and haematocrit (HCT) in identifying anaemia among pregnant women aged 18 to 35 at Gweru Provincial Hospital from 2024 to 2025. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research combines retrospective medical record reviews with prospective data collection, analysing records from 200 pregnant women. Participants were stratified by trimester and age to ensure diverse representation throughout the study. Data collection focused on relevant haematological indicators and demographic information, with comprehensive statistical analyses, including correlation coefficients, performed to assess relationships between biomarker levels and anaemia severity. The findings indicate a concerning anaemia prevalence of 42%, which markedly exceeds the global average of 38%. Strong correlations were found between decreased levels of Hb, HCT, and MCV and increased anaemia severity, with correlation coefficients of 0.85 for Hb, 0.80 for HCT, and 0.75 for MCV. This suggests that lower biomarker levels correlate significantly with greater anaemia severity. Additionally, the study highlights that women from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, particularly those with inadequate nutrition and limited access to healthcare, are disproportionately affected by this condition. The research emphasizes the critical role of haematological biomarkers in the timely diagnosis and effective management of anaemia during pregnancy. Recommendations include integrating routine biomarker screening into antenatal care and developing community based nutritional programs aimed at improving dietary practices among pregnant women. These essential interventions are crucial for addressing the complexities of anaemia and reducing its prevalence in vulnerable populations. Future research should evaluate the long-term impacts of these interventions while investigating additional factors contributing to anaemia, such as infections and chronic diseases, to enhance overall maternal health outcomes and ensure healthier pregnancies and improved neonatal well being.