Irondeficient
Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide. It occurs when the body's iron stores are insufficient to meet normal physiological needs, impairing hemoglobin synthesis and red blood cell production. The term iron-deficient is used for individuals with depleted iron stores, even before anemia develops.
Causes include blood loss (menstruation, pregnancy, gastrointestinal bleeding), inadequate dietary iron intake, conditions that impair absorption
Symptoms range from fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath to pale complexion and dizziness; in children,
Diagnosis relies on blood tests. Low ferritin indicates depleted iron stores; low transferrin saturation and elevated
Management typically starts with oral iron supplements and dietary changes to increase iron intake (heme iron
Prevention focuses on a balanced diet with adequate iron, fortification where applicable, and monitoring of at-risk