Factors affecting anemia among women of reproductive age in Mexico: a mixed-methods country case study

Background: In Mexico, anemia prevalence among women of reproductive age (WRA) decreased from 16.4% in 2006 to 11.6% in 2012, only to increase to 18.3% in 2016. The factors associated with this fluctuation are uncertain. Objectives: We conducted a systematic in-depth assessment of the quantitative and qualitative determinants of anemia among WRA in Mexico between 2006 and 2018. Methods: Using multivariate stepwise linear regression, we analyzed Mexico's Encuesta Nacional de Salud y Nutrición surveys from 2006, 2012, and 2018 to identify determinants of WRA anemia. We also conducted a review of anemia-relevant programs and policies, including financing documents, and conducted in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with key stakeholders in Mexico. Results: Among nonpregnant women (NPW) 15–49 y, mean hemoglobin (Hb) increased from 13.8 g/dL in 2006 to 14.0 g/dL in 2012, decreasing to 13.2 g/dL in 2018 (P < 0.001). Inequities by geographical region and household wealth persisted throughout this period, with household wealth, urban residence and gravidity emerging as significant predictors of Hb among NPW. Qualitative analyses generally supported these findings. The most discussed program was Progresa-Oportunidades-Prospera, where most resources for health were invested and majority of participants acknowledged that its cancellation in 2019 would lead to worsening of health and nutrition outcomes among the poor. Financing analyses showed a drop in funding for nutrition-related programs between 2014 and 2018. Cultural norms around gender roles were still prevalent, along with increasing rates of teenage pregnancy. Conclusions: Anemia prevention efforts need to refocus on poverty alleviation, continuity of adequate coverage and financing of nutrition programs, especially those with social safety nets, and increase in uptake of family planning, particularly among adolescent girls.