What is iron deficiency anemia and how frequently does it occur?

Iron deficiency anemia, one of the most frequent nutritional deficits worldwide, is a type of anemia that results from insufficient levels of iron in the body. The insufficient amount of iron restricts the body's blood-producing process, specifically the production of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen throughout the body.

Iron is a vital mineral involved in many bodily functions, particularly the generation of healthy red blood cells. Without enough iron, the number and size of red blood cells diminish, reducing the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. This deficiency leads to a series of symptoms associated with iron deficiency anemia.

Frequency:

Iron deficiency anemia affects a considerable portion of the global population, particularly pregnant women, young children, and individuals with specific chronic medical conditions. This widespread prevalence is influenced by various factors, including diet, nutrition, and health practices.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO):

- Globally, approximately 1.8 billion people are estimated to have anemia.

- Iron deficiency anemia contributes to almost half of all anemia cases (approximately 50%).

- Among pregnant women, iron deficiency anemia affects nearly half of them, with rates ranging from 20% to 80% in different regions of the world.

- Children under 5 years of age are also vulnerable to iron deficiency, with an estimated 42% prevalence worldwide.

- Individuals with certain medical conditions (e.g., celiac disease, gastrointestinal disorders, chronic diseases) are at an increased risk of developing iron deficiency anemia.

It's worth noting that the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia can vary across regions and populations due to differences in dietary patterns, iron absorption, and access to proper medical care.