Anemia — often dismissed as just “low blood” or a minor nutritional issue — is far more dangerous than many Nigerians realise. According to Professor Oladapo Olayemi, a leading expert in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, anemia is a serious oxygen crisis that can cause life-threatening complications, especially among women and expectant mothers.
Speaking on Nigeria Info’s Maternity Line with Zaynab Yekeen, Professor Olayemi broke down the myths and medical realities of anemia, urging early detection and prevention through nutrition, awareness, and public health action.
1. Anemia Is Not Just “Low Blood” — It’s a Lack of Oxygen
Professor Olayemi explained that anemia occurs when the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood is reduced, primarily due to low hemoglobin levels — the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body.
“This isn’t just a numbers issue; it’s about oxygen deprivation. When your hemoglobin is low, your body’s tissues and organs are starved of oxygen,” he said.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), normal hemoglobin levels are about 11 grams per 100 milliliters of blood, or 33%. Anything below that is considered anemic.
2. The Condition Often Begins Long Before Pregnancy
Anemia doesn’t start during pregnancy — it’s often the result of years of nutritional deficiencies. Professor Olayemi revealed that 30–40% of adolescent women in Nigerian universities are already anemic, mainly due to poor diets lacking iron and folic acid.
Other causes include genetic blood disorders like sickle cell disease, parasitic infections such as hookworm, and heavy menstrual bleeding.
“Many women are entering pregnancy already anemic,” he warned. “That’s like starting a marathon dehydrated — it’s risky for both mother and baby.”
3. Symptoms Can Be Easily Overlooked
Anemia is often a silent condition because its symptoms mimic everyday tiredness or pregnancy fatigue. Professor Olayemi highlighted key warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored:
- Constant fatigue or weakness during normal activities.
- Shortness of breath, even with light exertion.
- Dizziness or difficulty concentrating.
“These symptoms may seem normal, but they’re red flags of oxygen deprivation,” he cautioned.
4. Severe Anemia Can Be Fatal During Childbirth
In severe cases, anemia increases the risk of maternal mortality, especially during delivery. It can cause excessive bleeding, infections, and heart complications due to the body’s inability to handle stress or blood loss.
“This is why anemia is not just a minor issue — it’s a major public health threat in Nigeria,” Professor Olayemi emphasized.
5. Prevention Is Possible Through Nutrition and Screening
The good news, experts say, is that anemia is largely preventable. Professor Olayemi recommends:
✅ Routine screening for adolescent girls and women of reproductive age.
✅ Balanced diets rich in iron and folic acid — found in foods like leafy greens, beans, liver, eggs, and fortified cereals.
✅ Treatment of infections such as malaria and hookworm, which can worsen anemia.
✅ Supplementation programs for high-risk groups, especially pregnant women.
“A small step before pregnancy — like getting screened or improving your diet — can save lives later,” he concluded.
Anemia isn’t just about tiredness — it’s a silent oxygen emergency affecting millions of women across Nigeria. By prioritising nutrition, education, and early intervention, families and health authorities can help protect mothers and children from preventable suffering and death.
