A Non-Governmental Organization, Alive and Thrive, has stated that at least 58% of pregnant women in Nigeria suffer from anemia, a significant contributor to maternal and child mortality.
Dr. Auwalu Kawu, the organization’s Senior Technical Adviser on Behavior Change Communication, made this statement during a two-day media interactive dialogue in Kano on Multiple Micronutrients Supplements (MMS), a crucial intervention for improving maternal and child health.
According to Dr. Kawu, this figure is based on the most recent Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS), conducted from 2018 to 2024.
Dr. Kawu emphasized the need for pregnant women to use MMS to prevent pregnancy complications due to nutrient deficiencies.
He explained, “The Federal government, in collaboration with state governments, is focusing on improving maternal health among pregnant women. This is a critical period, as maternal mortality during pregnancy is a major concern. Therefore, the government is committed to providing MMS to all pregnant women to address the challenges they face.”
Additionally, Dr. Kawu noted that pregnant women often suffer from multiple nutritional deficiencies. “MMS consists of 15 essential nutrients for pregnant women, ensuring safe delivery and a healthy baby.”
He further stated, “Our meeting with the media today is an interactive session, as the media plays a vital role in promoting MMS messages and campaigns.”
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Dr. Kawu encouraged women to use MMS as provided at health facilities, emphasizing that MMS is a key solution to anemia.
Previously, women were given Iron Folic Acid (IFA), but MMS complements this by providing 12 additional nutrients, addressing complications related to nutritional deficiencies.
Dr. Kawu concluded, “Nationally, the current anemia rate remains around 58% among pregnant women. We anticipate that MMS will address this gap and correct it.”
Meanwhile, Stephanie Dada, Deputy Country Director (Programmes) of Alive and Thrive, stated that the media interactive session aimed to raise awareness among media practitioners about encouraging pregnant women to take MMS at facilities to reduce maternal deaths.