Abstract:

Background: Anemia during pregnancy is a major public health issue in Tanzania, affecting 57% of pregnant women, with a 35% higher prevalence among adolescents under 20. Contributing factors include ethnicity, religion, socio-cultural status, and food restrictions, exacerbated by family and community rejection. Additionally, power dynamics, limited healthcare access, and stigma hinder adolescents from seeking medical care, negatively impacting their health and that of their children. This study aims to explore the socio-cultural and economic factors influencing anemia among adolescent women in the Magu District.

Methods: Using a phenomenological design, the research involved 48 pregnant adolescents in 8 focus group discussions and various community health workers, health care workers, traditional birth attendants and elderly women through key informant interviews. Data were transcribed and analyzed thematically to identify key influences on anemia in this vulnerable demographic.

Findings: The study found that anemia among adolescent pregnant women is significantly influenced by sociocultural factors such as food taboos that restrict the intake of iron-rich foods like eggs and meat, leading to inadequate iron levels. Stigma and social labelling create feelings of shame and guilt, deterring these young women from seeking prenatal care, resulting in undiagnosed anemia and reliance on traditional medicines. Economic factors, including lack of financial support and power dynamics, further limit access to essential nutrients and healthcare services. Participants highlighted challenges like gender roles, lack of education, and misconceptions about iron supplements as barriers to proper nutritional practices and timely anemia management. To combat these issues, they suggested community education campaigns, family involvement, and engagement with traditional leaders.


Conclusion: Addressing these intertwined cultural and economic factors is essential to improve iron dietary habits and healthcare access through educational campaigns, enhance economic support programs, engagement of traditional leaders and family involvement which will ultimately reduce anemia prevalence and enhance health outcomes for adolescent pregnant women.