Publications

Maternal mortality remains a pressing public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, where anemia is a prevalent yet often underrecognized contributor. This comparative review synthesizes evidence on the role of anemia in maternal mortality across African countries, examining its prevalence, pathophysiology, quantitative impact, and the effectiveness of interventions. Severe anemia significantly increases the risk of maternal death by exacerbating obstetric complications such as hemorrhage, infections, and hypertensive disorders. The review highlights substantial regional variations in anemia prevalence, influenced by malaria endemicity, nutritional deficiencies, health system capacity, and socioeconomic determinants. Despite the availability of interventions—including iron and folic acid supplementation, malaria prophylaxis, deworming, and nutrition support—implementation gaps, poor adherence, limited antenatal care coverage, and weak health infrastructure impede progress. Addressing anemiarelated maternal mortality requires integrated, context-specific strategies combining clinical care, public health measures, and nutrition-sensitive interventions, supported by implementation research and policy prioritization. Strengthening these efforts is critical for reducing preventable maternal deaths and achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3 targets.