Expectant Mothers with Iron Deficiency Anemia: Correlation Between Oxidative Stress, Erythrocyte Indicators, and Iron Stores

Abstract

Introduction: Iron deficiency anemia is a common condition in pregnant women, associated with adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. Oxidative stress, indicated by elevated malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, may exacerbate anemia by damaging red blood cells and impairing iron metabolism. This study aims to explore the relationship between oxidative stress, measured through serum MDA levels, and hematological indices, including hemoglobin and ferritin, in pregnant women diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia. By comparing these parameters with healthy pregnant and non-pregnant controls, we seek to enhance understanding of the mechanisms underlying anemia during pregnancy and identify potential targets for intervention.
Materials & Methods: The study included 75 women aged 20 to 40 years, comprising 25 cases of iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy, 25 healthy pregnant controls, and 25 healthy non-pregnant controls. Blood samples (10 ml) were collected for hemoglobin, MCH, MCHC, serum ferritin, and MDA analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA and Pearson's correlation.
Results: MDA levels were significantly elevated in anemia cases (6.96 ± 1.69) compared to pregnant controls (4.63 ± 1.55) and healthy controls (3.65 ± 1.08), indicating increases of approximately 50.3% and 90.0%, respectively. Serum ferritin levels were markedly reduced in anemia cases (8.3 ± 7.94 ng/ml) compared to pregnant controls (39.10 ± 13.68 ng/ml) and healthy controls (61.05 ± 25.29 ng/ml). Hemoglobin, MCV, MCH, and MCHC were also significantly decreased in anemia cases compared to both control groups.
Discussion: The findings highlight a strong association between elevated oxidative stress, indicated by increased MDA levels, and reduced iron stores in iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy. This study underscores the importance of monitoring oxidative stress and iron levels to manage anemia effectively.