Ravi Kumar Dhawan

BACKGROUND: Both anemia and thyroid disorders are common public health problems with pregnant women being the most vulnerable group. The risk of maternal mortality has a direct correlation with the severity of IDA (Iron Deficiency Anemia). OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to observe the prevalence of anemia and evaluate the level of thyroid hormones in pregnant women and to study their inter-relationship. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 100 antenatal cases of women with the reproductive age group of 20-40 years have been included in the study. Subjects were categorized into three trimesters of pregnancy, viz. first trimester, second trimester and third trimester and their blood samples were analysed for biochemical and hematological parameters. RESULTS: It has been observed that 57% of pregnant women enrolled were anemic with Hb less than 11 g/dl. Based on the haematological studies, the anemic condition was due to the deficiency of iron. Further, thyroid function was found to be correlated with iron deficiency anemia. Subclinical hypothyroidism was found in 49% of anemic subjects. CONCLUSION: Subclinical hypothyroidism is more pronounced effect than overt hypothyroidism due to iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy as revealed from the data generated in the study. Screening of thyroid stimulating hormone in all pregnant women at time of first visit and treatment should be started if TSH <2.5IU/ml for healthy feto-maternal outcome. It has been established from the present study, that anemia can worsen this condition further, since iron deficiency is a major public health problem in developing country like India.