MARTINEZ, DION JASPER D.
1-B2 FSM
IRON DIFICIENCY
-is a widespread issue globally. Here are the major causes and some essential
information about this condition:
Cause:
Inadequate Dietary Intake: Not consuming enough iron-rich foods can lead to iron
deficiency. Vegetarians and vegans, in particular, need to pay attention to their iron
intake.
Poor Absorption: Even if you consume iron, your body might struggle to absorb it
efficiently. Certain conditions (like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease) can
hinder iron absorption.
Blood Loss: Chronic blood loss due to heavy menstruation, gastrointestinal bleeding,
or other medical conditions can deplete iron levels.
Increased Demand: During pregnancy or periods of rapid growth (such as
adolescence), the body’s iron requirements increase. If these needs aren’t met,
deficiency can occur.
HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED
Iron deficiency can be diagnosed through a series of tests. Here are the key methods
used by doctors to identify iron deficiency:
Blood Tests:
Hemoglobin Test: Measures the amount of hemoglobin (a protein that carries oxygen)
in your blood.
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Hematocrit Test: Estimates the percentage of red blood cells in your blood volume.
Complete Blood Count (CBC): Checks the number and volume of red blood cells.
Serum Ferritin: Measures the stored form of iron.
Transferrin Saturation Test: Assesses the amount of transported iron.
Serum Transferrin Receptor Assay: Indicates increased red blood cell production.
IS A CERTAIN AGE GROUP MORE PRONE TO THE DISEASE?
Iron deficiency anemia can affect people of all ages, but certain groups are more prone
to it due to various factors.
Older Adults:
Iron deficiency anemia is relatively common among aging populations.
Research indicates that depending on the population, 12–47% of older adults may
develop some form of anemia.
Specifically, about 17% of people over the age of 65 years experience anemia.
Iron deficiency anemia accounts for approximately one-third of anemia cases in older
adults.
Children:
Children aged 1 to 5 who consume more than 24 ounces (710 milliliters) of cow’s milk,
goat’s milk, or soy milk daily are at risk.
Those with certain health conditions (such as chronic infections or restricted diets) are
also vulnerable.
to risk2.
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Teens:
Teens who are underweight or have chronic illnesses are at risk.
Teenage girls with heavy periods are also more likely to develop iron-deficiency anemia.
In summary, while iron deficiency anemia can affect people of all ages, awareness of
risk factors and early intervention are crucial for maintaining optimal health.
CAN IT BE CURED?
Without enough iron, your body can't produce enough of a substance in red blood
cells that enables them to carry oxygen (hemoglobin). As a result, iron deficiency
anemia may leave you tired and short of breath. You can usually correct iron deficiency
anemia with iron supplementation.
Student Center Bldg., MinSU Main Campus, Alcate, Victoria, Oriental Mindoro | Mobile: 09278071202
[email protected] | www.minsu.edu.ph