Factors Influencing Anti-Malarial Prophylaxis and Iron Supplementation Non-Compliance among Pregnant Women in Simiyu Region, Tanzania

Benatus Sambili, Ronald Kimambo, Yun Peng, Elison Ishunga, Edna Matasha, Godfrey Matumu, Rita Noronha and David P. Ngilangwa
Additional contact information
Benatus Sambili: Amref Health Africa Tanzania, P.O. Box 2773, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Ronald Kimambo: Amref Health Africa Tanzania, P.O. Box 2773, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Yun Peng: Amref Health Africa Tanzania, P.O. Box 2773, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Elison Ishunga: Amref Health Africa Tanzania, P.O. Box 2773, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Edna Matasha: Amref Health Africa Tanzania, P.O. Box 2773, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Godfrey Matumu: Amref Health Africa Tanzania, P.O. Box 2773, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Rita Noronha: Amref Health Africa Tanzania, P.O. Box 2773, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
David P. Ngilangwa: Amref Health Africa Tanzania, P.O. Box 2773, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

IJERPH, 2016, vol. 13, issue 7, 1-12

Abstract: Malaria and iron-deficient anemia during pregnancy pose considerable risks for the mother and newborn. Intermittent Preventive Treatment during pregnancy with sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP) and iron supplement to prevent anemia to all pregnant women receiving antenatal care (ANC) services is highly recommended. However, their compliance remains low. This study aimed at identifying factors influencing non-compliance of medications among pregnant women. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Simiyu region in northwest Tanzania using a structured questionnaire to collect data from 430 women who were pregnant or gave birth 12 months prior to data collection. Data were analyzed using non-parametric statistical analysis with STATA 10. Overall, 284 (66%) and 195 (45%) of interviewed women received IPTp-SP and iron supplementation during their ANC visits, respectively. The majority (85%) of women whom received medications were aware if they had received IPTp-SP or iron supplementation. Of those received IPTp-SP, only 11% took all the three doses, while the remaining 89% took only two doses or one dose. For women who received iron supplementation, 29% reported that they did not take any dose at all. Reasons given for not complying with regiments included not liking the medications and disapproval from male partners. Our findings suggest that IPTp-SP and iron supplement compliance among pregnant women in Simiyu region is low. Intensification of community education, further qualitative research and administration of medication through directly-observed therapy (DOT) are recommended to address the problem.

Keywords: anti-malarial prophylaxis; iron supplementation; non-compliance; pregnant women; Tanzania (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2016
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