Global Research Trends and Emerging Frontiers in Iron Deficiency Anaemia during Pregnancy: A Bibliometric and Network Visualization Analysis

Abstract

Background: Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) during pregnancy remains a major global health concern, contributing to maternal morbidity, adverse birth outcomes, and long-term developmental consequences. Despite increasing research attention, the scientific landscape of IDA in pregnancy has not been systematically mapped to identify dominant themes, knowledge gaps, and emerging frontiers.

Objective: This study aimed to analyse global research trends, hotspots, and thematic clusters related to iron deficiency anaemia in pregnancy, with a focus on treatment approaches, compliance, and patient outcomes.

Methods: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using data retrieved from Google Scholar via Publish or Perish (2020–2025). A total of 999 articles were included. Data were analysed using VOSviewer for co-occurrence mapping, density visualization, and overlay analysis. Key indicators included publication output, citation patterns, highly cited papers, and keyword co-occurrence networks.

Results: The analysis identified 32,255 citations across 999 articles (mean 32.3 citations/article). Research hotspots centred on iron deficiency anaemia, treatment, patient, and hemoglobin level. Network visualization revealed four thematic clusters: (1) determinants, awareness, and compliance; (2) epidemiology and guidelines; (3) clinical management and therapeutic interventions (oral vs intravenous iron, ferric carboxymaltose, efficacy, and safety); and (4) biological and nutritional aspects, including iron absorption and maternal nutrition. Overlay mapping indicated that recent studies (2021–2022) have increasingly focused on intravenous iron therapies, efficacy–safety evaluation, and patient compliance.

Conclusion: Global research on IDA in pregnancy is rapidly expanding, with a strong emphasis on treatment strategies and clinical guidelines. However, gaps remain in addressing patient compliance, health education, and culturally tailored interventions, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. These findings highlight the need for integrated approaches that combine clinical, behavioural, and public health perspectives to improve maternal and neonatal outcomes