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The Ministry of Health has said almost half of pregnant and breastfeeding mothers have been found to have dangerously low levels of blood, which increases their risk of dying.
According to the most current micro-nutrient survey released yesterday, the prevalence of iron-deficiency anaemia among pregnant women is as high at 55.1 per cent and 46.4 per cent among non-pregnant women.
Iron deficiency anaemia is caused by lack of iron in the body, leading to reduced red blood cells that carry oxygen to body cells and tissues, thereby endangering lives.
Director of Medical Services Nicholas Muraguri said the presence of anaemia among pregnant and lactating women in Kenya was worrying as it increased the likelihood of death and poor health for mothers and children.
Dr Muraguri blamed the situation on the fact that very few pregnant and breast feeding women (2.5 per cent) take iron supplements needed to increase the amount and quality of their blood. He noted that the body needs extra iron during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
"Even though the proportion of women who took iron supplements is higher than several years ago, it is still very low. Also, those who took the supplements did so for less than the recommended 90 days," he said.
Among the symptoms of iron-deficiency anaemia are chronic tiredness, shortness of breath, heart palpitations and a pale complexion. Data from the Kenya Service Provision Assessment showed that only 41 per cent of health facilities had iron tablets, showing a lack of availability of the supplements.
"The assessment also indicated there was limited compromised quality of counselling during ante-natal and post-natal care, meaning pregnant and breastfeeding mothers are not sensitised on the importance of taking the supplements," said Muraguri.
Experts assert that micro-nutrients and appropriate maternal and infant feeding are key components in preventing and managing death and diseases. The Ministry of Health said it was focused on building the capacity of health care providers both at health facilities and household levels to deal with the deficiency of iron and other micro-nutrients.
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