Iron deficiency affects a significant portion of the adult population in the U.S., with researchers estimating that more than 1 in 6 adults may be affected. Absolute iron deficiency, which involves a serious reduction or absence of the body’s iron stores, was found to impact 14 percent of Americans, while 15 percent may have functional iron deficiency, where the body struggles to use its iron reserves. Iron deficiency is closely linked to anemia, a condition characterized by low hemoglobin and decreased red blood cells, which can lead to a range of symptoms including tiredness, weakness, shortness of breath, confusion, heart failure, irregular heartbeats, and even death.
The study conducted by Leo F. Buckley and his team from Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston aimed to assess the risk level of iron deficiency among the general U.S. population using data from over 8,000 adults from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey. Women between the ages of 18 to 50 were found to be the most affected group, with 34 percent exhibiting absolute iron deficiency and 19 percent showing functional iron deficiency, which the researchers linked to menstruation. As women aged, the prevalence of iron deficiency decreased, with women over 65 having rates similar to those in the 50-65 age group. Among men, the rates of iron deficiency were significantly lower compared to women, with the highest prevalence found in younger women of reproductive age.
Functional iron deficiency, where the body struggles to utilize its iron stores, was found to be more common overall than absolute iron deficiency except in women under 50. Individuals who had anemia, heart failure, chronic kidney disease, or were pregnant were more likely to have absolute iron deficiency. Interestingly, the study also demonstrated that individuals who were overweight or obese were more likely to have functional iron deficiency, which is an important finding considering the high rates of obesity in the U.S. population. Additionally, the study did not find significant associations between iron deficiency and factors such as alcohol consumption, food security, and dietary iron intake, suggesting that other factors affecting iron absorption may be at play.
The researchers highlighted the importance of considering factors that influence iron absorption in addition to dietary intake, such as consuming iron-rich foods with those high in vitamin C to enhance iron absorption. They noted that doctors may be missing up to 70 percent of iron deficiency cases among children and during pregnancy because only very high-risk groups are typically screened for the condition. This research sheds light on the prevalence of iron deficiency in the U.S. population and underscores the need for increased awareness, screening, and interventions to address this common nutritional concern that can have serious health implications if left untreated.
Overall, the study by Buckley and colleagues provides valuable insights into the prevalence of iron deficiency in the U.S. population, highlighting the impact on various demographic groups and health conditions. By identifying the risk levels of iron deficiency and associated factors, this research can inform healthcare providers and policymakers on the need for targeted screening and interventions to address this common nutritional deficiency, which can have wide-ranging health implications beyond anemia. Further research and public health initiatives are warranted to address iron deficiency and its potential consequences on bone health, heart function, physical capacity, brain function, and overall mortality.
