# Exploring the association between indoor air pollution (IAP) and anaemia among pregnant women in India

## TL;DR

This study finds that indoor air pollution increases the risk of anemia in pregnant women in India, especially among vulnerable groups.

## Contribution

The study provides new evidence on the link between indoor air pollution and anemia in Indian pregnant women.

## Key findings

- Indoor air pollution is significantly associated with higher odds of anemia in pregnant women.
- Younger, less educated, rural, and economically disadvantaged women are more likely to be anemic.
- The study highlights the need to address indoor air quality in maternal health strategies.

## Abstract

Anaemia during pregnancy in India persists despite policy attention and nutritional interventions. While its primary determinants are well-recognized, the association between indoor air pollution (IAP) and anaemia among pregnant women in India remains conspicuously under-explored.

This study examines the relationship between exposure to IAP and anaemia among pregnant women, using the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019–21), with an analytical sample of 25,579 respondents. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariable logistic regression were used to assess the association between IAP exposure and anaemia, while accounting for socio-demographic, health, and behavioural characteristics.

IAP was significantly associated with higher odds of anaemia (COR: 1.43, 95% CI: 1.36–1.51). Pregnant women who were younger, had lower levels of education, resided in rural areas, belonged to scheduled tribe communities, and poor wealth index household were more likely to be anaemic.

These findings suggest the need to integrate household energy transitions and indoor air quality improvements into maternal anaemia reduction strategies.