Socioeconomic and Demographic Study of the Determinants of Anaemia Prevalence Among Women in Nigeria

Onyenekwe Chukwuenyem E; Oladuti Mercy. O; Adubiaro Dunsin; Onyenekwe Amala Joy

doi:10.64060/JASR2V2i1

Authors

Onyenekwe Chukwuenyem E Department of Statistics, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria Author
Oladuti Mercy. O Department of Statistics, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria Author
Adubiaro Dunsin Department of Statistics, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria Author
Onyenekwe Amala Joy Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.64060/JASR2V2i1

Keywords:

Anaemia, Socio-economic Factors, Nigeria, NDHS, Ordinal Regression

Abstract

Anaemia remains a significant public health issue among women of reproductive age, especially in developing countries like Nigeria. This study examines the influence of socio-economic and demographic factors on anaemia among women in Nigeria using data from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS). Variables analyzed include age, marital status, body mass index (BMI), education level, wealth index, pregnancy status, contraceptive use, region, place of residence, ethnicity, media exposure, and access to improved water. We first used descriptive statistics and Pearson's chi-square tests to explore links between women's anaemia status and key factors like residence, education, and wealth. Variables showing significant associations at this stage were then examined further with a partial proportional odds model, chosen to properly handle the ordered categories of anaemia severity (non-anaemic, mild, moderate, severe). Among the women surveyed, 41% had no anaemia, while 27% showed mild anaemia, 30% moderate anaemia, and 2% severe anaemia. Rural living, lower education evels, poorer household wealth, current pregnancy, lack of improved water access, and certain regional differences all raised the odds of severe anaemia significantly. The study concludes that socio-economic inequalities play a significant role in the burden of anaemia among women in Nigeria. Targeted interventions focusing on education, economic empowerment, and improved healthcare access are essential to reduce anaemia prevalence.

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