The study highlights a concerning gap in health screening, where treatable causes of anemia such as low B12, folate, and iron are frequently disregarded. Anemia, a condition with subtle symptoms that are often overlooked, can have a significant impact on an individual’s health and well-being. Early detection through regular screening is crucial for effective management and treatment.
However, a study conducted by the University of Limerick School of Medicine in Ireland and published in early 2024 revealed that physicians are not adequately screening for anemia. The retrospective cohort study, which involved 112,181 adult patients aged 18 years and older, found that 12 percent of patients had anemia—a higher prevalence than expected.
The research also showed that anemia was more prevalent in women than men up to ages 55 to 59, after which it became more common in men. The diagnosis of anemia increased significantly with age, with the prevalence reaching 33.4 percent in participants over 75 years old. The study noted that the prevalence of anemia increased more rapidly with age in men compared to women.
Furthermore, the study brought to light the neglect of treatable causes of anemia in health care screening. Less than 20 percent of anemic patients were screened for B12 and folic acid deficiencies, and only one-third were tested for iron deficiency in their follow-up appointment at three months.
In the United States, recent data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey revealed that more than 70 percent of iron-deficiency anemia cases in pregnant women and children go undetected. An article published in 2022 in the American Journal of Public Health found that current American guidelines on screening for anemia are outdated or inconclusive.
Anemia occurs when there are insufficient healthy red blood cells in the blood, resulting in tissues and organs not receiving enough oxygen. Hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to the body’s tissues, requires iron as an essential component. Anemia can result from various factors such as nutritional deficiencies, chronic diseases, digestive disorders, or genetics, and treatment options depend on the underlying cause.
The most common types and causes of anemia include iron-deficiency anemia, vitamin deficiency anemia, hemolytic anemias, aplastic anemia, sickle cell anemia, anemia related to chronic diseases, anemia during pregnancy, and anemia due to bone marrow disorders. Additionally, certain medications can also cause anemia as a side effect.
The burden of anemia in the healthcare system is particularly significant for older patients due to their increased vulnerability. Anemia in older individuals is associated with poorer cognitive function, mood disorders, cardiovascular diseases, insomnia, longer hospital stays, reduced executive function, higher risk of falls and fractures, and mortality.
Symptoms of anemia can include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, pale or yellowish skin, cold hands and feet, headaches, brain fog, concentration issues, lightheadedness, and dizziness. Lack of oxygen in the blood can lead to persistent tiredness and difficulty breathing, as the heart works harder to pump oxygen-rich blood. Mental disturbances can manifest as changes in mood and irritability. Anemia caused by low levels of vitamin B12 or folate may result in symptoms such as a sore tongue, cracks at the corners of the mouth, and mouth ulcers. Inadequate levels of these vitamins can also lead to memory and vision issues, balance and coordination problems, and numbness and tingling in the hands or feet.
According to the National Library of Medicine, making simple dietary changes can help alleviate symptoms and improve weaknesses related to anemia caused by nutritional deficiencies. Incorporating iron-rich foods, particularly animal protein, can help address iron deficiency.
Registered dietitian Dan Gallagher emphasized the importance of consuming bioavailable sources of iron for the body to effectively utilize it. Heme iron from animal products is more easily absorbed, while non-heme iron from plant-based foods like lentils and beans may require pairing with vitamin C-rich foods for better absorption.
Consuming certain beverages like coffee and tea, as well as calcium-rich drinks, may inhibit iron absorption. Using cast iron cookware to prepare food can help increase its iron content.
Early detection and screening for anemia are crucial to prevent complications such as physical and cognitive impairments, multi-organ failure, and even death. Dr. Sambyal highlighted the risks associated with untreated anemia, including heart conditions, pregnancy complications, and developmental issues in children.
Raising awareness about the risk factors, causes, and symptoms of anemia is essential for maintaining overall health. Regular screenings for anemia and checking for deficiencies in key vitamins like B12, B6, and folate are recommended for individuals of all ages and demographics.
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