Abstract
BACKGROUND: Anaemia is a significant global health problem, especially, in developing nations like Ethiopia. Despite increasing rates over the past two decades, there is limited research on the specific prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women in the country. OBJECTIVE: To identify hotspot areas of anaemia-associated factors among pregnant women in Ethiopia. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional. SETTING: Ethiopian demographic study from 2005 to 2016. PARTICIPANTS: This study analysed 3350 pregnant women. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES: Hotspot area of anaemia among pregnant women, trend of anaemia and associated factors. RESULTS: The prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women has shown significant fluctuations over the years. Between 2005 and 2011, there was a notable decrease from 30.9% to 21.5% while the prevalence increased from 21.5% in 2011 to 29.58% in 2016. The identified determinants of anaemia among pregnant women were female-headed household, belonging to the highest wealth quintile, being in the second or third trimester of pregnancy, being a working woman and residing in the Somalia region. Hotspot areas, where the prevalence of anaemia was particularly high, were identified in Somalia, Dire Dawa, Afar and Harari regions. CONCLUSION: Anaemia during pregnancy is a major public health concern in Ethiopia, with a concerning increase between 2011 and 2016. Hotspot areas like Somali, Dire Dawa, Afar and Harari are particularly affected. Shockingly, nearly one in three pregnant women in Ethiopia suffer from anaemia. To address this issue effectively, targeted interventions prioritising economically disadvantaged households and pregnant women in their second and third trimesters are crucial. Monitoring spatial patterns and contributing factors is vital to develop tailored interventions and improve maternal health outcomes in these high-risk areas. By strategically targeting hotspot areas nationwide, significant progress can be made in reducing anaemia among pregnant women.