The Effect of Malaria on Hemoglobin Levels in Pregnant Women in the Third Trimester in 2022

Abstract

Malaria is a serious public health problem in endemic areas, particularly in developing countries like Indonesia. This disease is caused by the Plasmodium parasite, which is transmitted through the bite of the female Anopheles mosquito. Pregnancy causes physiological and immunological changes that make pregnant women, especially in the third trimester, more susceptible to malaria complications. One common complication of malaria infection during pregnancy is anemia, characterized by a decrease in hemoglobin (Hb) levels in the blood (WHO, 2021). Malaria infection during pregnancy can cause the Plasmodium parasite to invade and destroy red blood cells, directly impacting hemoglobin levels. Furthermore, malaria can also cause hemolysis, impaired erythropoiesis, and increased iron requirements that are not met during pregnancy. This decrease in hemoglobin levels can trigger severe anemia, which carries the risk of obstetric complications such as premature delivery, low birth weight, and even maternal and fetal death (Desai et al., 2007; Menendez et al., 2015). This study aims to analyze the effect of malaria on hemoglobin levels in pregnant women in the third trimester in 2022. This study used an observational analytical design with a cross-sectional approach, conducted in a malaria-endemic area in Indonesia. The sample consisted of pregnant women in their third trimester diagnosed with malaria and compared with a control group not infected with malaria. Hemoglobin levels were measured using hematology laboratory tests. The results showed a significant difference between the hemoglobin levels of pregnant women with malaria compared to those not infected with malaria, with the group with malaria having lower hemoglobin levels (p<0.05). This confirms the finding that malaria contributes significantly to the incidence of anemia in pregnant women (Uneke, 2008). The impact of anemia in pregnancy is extensive, not only on maternal health but also on fetal development. Untreated anemia can cause fetal growth disorders, fetal hypoxia, and increase the risk of postpartum hemorrhage (Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia, 2020). Therefore, early detection of malaria in pregnant women and appropriate management are crucial to prevent a dangerous decrease in hemoglobin levels. Increasing public and healthcare worker awareness of the importance of malaria screening during antenatal care is also key to preventive efforts. In conclusion, malaria significantly reduces hemoglobin levels in pregnant women during the third trimester. These findings are expected to inform the formulation of maternal and neonatal health policies in Indonesia to reduce maternal and infant morbidity and mortality due to malaria-induced anemia complications