DOI: 10.36347/sajb.2016.v04i05.005

Pages: 390-395

Increased number of nucleated red blood cells (NRBC)are seen in newborns in long standing erythropoietin induced erythropoiesis, acute stress, hypoxia or sometimes idiopathic release. In general NRBC increases with blood pressure and decreases as pregnancy advances. Keeping this in mind the present study was done to find any association of cord blood NRBC with socio-demographic factors in term pregnancy. 240 pregnant women with singleton term pregnancy were included in the study after obtaining written informed consent. Cord blood NRBC count per 100 leucocytes was counted and results were analysed to find association of NRBC with socio-demographic factors. A weak negative association was seen with maternal age, gravidity and gestational age. No significant difference in mean cord blood NRBC count was seen in women according to religion, residence or literacy status. A moderate positive association was seen with systolic and diastolic blood pressure. NRBC count has a positive correlation with systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Maternal socio-demographic status except BMI and economic status had no significant association with NRBC. A negative correlation was seen with gravidity and gestational age.