Iron Deficiency: A Widespread and Underrecognized Health Issue #

A recent study suggests that iron deficiency may be more prevalent in the United States than previously thought. Nearly one in three adults may have one of two forms of iron deficiency, even without a health condition typically associated with it.

Types of Iron Deficiency #

Absolute Iron Deficiency: Affects an estimated 14% of adults, resulting from a severe reduction or absence of iron stored in the body.
Functional Iron Deficiency: Affects an estimated 15% of adults, occurring when there are adequate iron stores, but they aren’t mobilized enough to support the body sufficiently.

Key Findings #

The prevalence of absolute iron deficiency was highest in pre-menopausal women.
Absolute iron deficiency was also common among older women and men.
Functional iron deficiency was fairly common across all ages and sexes.
Conditions like obesity, diabetes, and kidney disease can cause functional iron deficiency.

Importance of Iron #

Iron is essential for many bodily functions and development. It’s used to make hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells. Iron deficiency has been linked to various health issues, including:

Restless leg syndrome
Fatigue
Hair loss
Heart failure
Anemia

At-Risk Groups #

Certain groups are more prone to iron deficiency:

Women who menstruate
Pregnant individuals
Children
Vegetarians
Frequent blood donors

Treatment and Prevention #

Iron deficiency can be prevented or treated through:

Iron pills
Intravenous iron infusions
Nonprescription iron supplements
Iron-rich foods (lean meats, seafood, nuts, beans, lentils, spinach)

Underdiagnosis and Lack of Screening #

The study found that most adults with either type of iron deficiency would likely not be screened for it unless they specifically asked their doctor. Only a small percentage of those with iron deficiency had a potential medical reason to be screened.

Supplement Use #

The use of iron supplements was infrequent among adults with iron deficiency:

Up to 35% of women with the condition reported taking them
Up to 18% of men with the condition reported taking them

Recommendations #

Consider asking your doctor to test iron levels if concerned
Maintain a healthy diet rich in iron-containing foods
Be aware of potential sources of excess bleeding, which can lead to iron deficiency

This study highlights the need for increased awareness and potentially more comprehensive screening for iron deficiency in the general population.