Global prevalences of erythropoiesis-associated micronutrient deficiencies (iron, folate, and vitamin B12) among pregnant women: a systematic review and meta-analysis

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#humans #pregnancy #female #prevalence #folic-acid-deficiency

Global prevalences of erythropoiesis-associated micronutrient deficiencies (iron, folate, and vitamin B12) among pregnant women: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Nguyen et al., 2025 | Ann Med | Meta Analysis

Citation

Nguyen Nhi Thi Hong, Chen Yang-Ching, ... Chao Jane C-J. Global prevalences of erythropoiesis-associated micronutrient deficiencies (iron, folate, and vitamin B12) among pregnant women: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Ann Med. 2025-Dec;57(1):2602960. doi:10.1080/07853890.2025.2602960

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Deficiencies of iron, folate, and vitamin B12 micronutrients are considered a global public health issue. These deficiencies not only lead to anemia but are also linked to numerous short- and long-term health risks for both mothers and children. This study aimed to estimate the global prevalence of erythropoiesis-associated micronutrient deficiencies (iron, folate, and vitamin B12) in pregnant women. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We systematically searched three databases, including PubMed, Embase, and Scopus, along with a manual search for observational studies published up to August 26, 2024. Data extraction was independently screened by two reviewers. Random-effects models were employed to pool data on prevalences of iron, folate, and vitamin B12 deficiencies among pregnant women. We identified 43 studies from 28 countries. RESULTS: Global pooled prevalences of single iron, folate, and vitamin B12 deficiencies were 28.4% (95% CI, 21.1-37%), 11.1% (95% CI, 3.9-27.5%), and 17.1% (95% CI, 8.8-30.6%), respectively. Pooled prevalences of double micronutrient deficiencies of iron or folate were 53.1% (95% CI, 49.8-56.5%) and 49.6% (95% CI, 46.2-53%), respectively; double micronutrient deficiencies of folate or vitamin B12 were 6.2% (95% CI, 1.2-25.8%) and 11.8% (95% CI, 3.3-34.1%), respectively. Pooled prevalences of triple micronutrient deficiencies of iron or folate or vitamin B12 were 36.1% (95% CI, 13.1-68%), 34.3% (95% CI, 16.9-57.3%), and 12.6% (95% CI, 7-74.8%), respectively. CONCLUSION: The findings highlight the high prevalences of erythropoiesis-related micronutrient deficiencies in pregnant women worldwide. Targeted interventions to mitigate these deficiencies during pregnancy.

Key Findings

Global pooled prevalences of single iron, folate, and vitamin B12 deficiencies were 28.4% (95% CI, 21.1-37%), 11.1% (95% CI, 3.9-27.5%), and 17.1% (95% CI, 8.8-30.6%), respectively. Pooled prevalences of double micronutrient deficiencies of iron or folate were 53.1% (95% CI, 49.8-56.5%) and 49.6% (95% CI, 46.2-53%), respectively; double micronutrient deficiencies of folate or vitamin B12 were 6.2% (95% CI, 1.2-25.8%) and 11.8% (95% CI, 3.3-34.1%), respectively. Pooled prevalences of triple micro

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population pregnant women
Sample Size 43
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Female
  • Prevalence
  • Folic Acid Deficiency
  • Vitamin B 12 Deficiency
  • Micronutrients
  • Global Health
  • Erythropoiesis
  • Iron Deficiencies
  • Folic Acid
  • Iron
  • Anemia, Iron-Deficiency
  • Vitamin B 12

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Meta Analysis
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis
  • Vertical: vitamin-b12

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09