Abstract

Anemia among women of reproductive age remains a significant public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa, 
particularly in Uganda and Nigeria. This review examines the causes, consequences, and intervention strategies for 
anemia in these two countries, which have high prevalence rates and differing socio-economic and healthcare 
contexts. Anemia in these women is predominantly caused by nutritional deficiencies (e.g., iron, folate), parasitic 
infections (e.g., malaria, hookworm), and socio-economic factors like poverty and limited healthcare access. The 
consequences of anemia are severe, affecting maternal and child health, leading to complications such as preterm 
birth and low birth weight, while also reducing women’s productivity and economic contributions. Various 
interventions, such as nutritional programs, malaria control, and improved healthcare access, have been 
implemented, but challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and cultural barriers remain. The review highlights 
the need for a comprehensive, cross-sectoral approach to address anemia in Uganda and Nigeria, with targeted 
strategies to improve maternal health outcomes and reduce anemia prevalence.