How frequently does iron deficiency anemia occur?

Iron-deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia, affecting over 1 billion people globally. It is especially prevalent among pregnant women and children under the age of five. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 50% of pregnant women and 40% of children under five are anemic, primarily due to iron deficiency. Iron-deficiency anemia is particularly prevalent in low- and middle-income countries and is closely linked to poverty, malnutrition, and poor sanitation.