ANAEMIA AND FOLATE STATUS IN LATE PREGNANCY IN A MIXED ASIATIC POPULATION

Summary

A haematological survey was carried out on 545 women in late pregnancy in Singapore, with particular reference to differing patterns in the three principal ethnic groups (Chinese, Malay and Indian).

Anaemia during pregnancy does not constitute such a major problem as in many other Asian communities and haemoglobin levels below 9 0 g. per 100 ml. were found in only 1·7 per cent of patients.

Folate depletion and megaloblastic anaemia occurred most frequently among Indian patients, whilst iron deficiency was found most often in Malay women.

The haematological status of the Chinese was superior to that of both Malays and Indians.

Multigravidae in all ethnic groups showed higher incidences of anaemia and of folate depletion, but the changes with increasing gravidity were most marked amongst Indian patients.

The bias towards high gravidity in the Malays and Indians only partly accounts for the poorer haematological status in these ethnic groups. Even when allowance is made for gravidity, ethnic differences persist which can probably be accounted for by differences in diet and methods of food preparation.