Iron deficiency anemia is a condition where due to a lack of iron, theperson’s red blood cell count is extremely low. Red blood cells areresponsible for carrying oxygen to the body’s tissues. Iron deficienciesare prevalent among individuals who consume a poor or restricted diet,suffer from inflammatory bowel disease, pregnant women and due to bloodloss.

Here are a few important (and some fun) facts you should know about thedeficiency.

1. 80% of the world’s population is iron deficient. 24.8% of theglobal population, i.e. 1.62 billion people are anemic.
2. Women are more prone to being iron deficient than men as theyregularly lose blood on their monthly cycle.
3. Anemia patients are fatigued and prone to fainting as they face alack of oxygen to different parts of their bodies, including theirbrains. They are often exhausted, pale, dizzy and short of breath.
4. Anemia means ‘lack of blood’ in Greek. It is the Latinized versionof the Greek word ‘anaimia’ i.e. ‘an’ meaning without and ‘haim’meaning blood.
5. Anemic individuals feel compelled to chew ice. Although the exactreason for this craving isn’t proven, it is said it helps calm downinflamed gums and keeps fatigued patients awake.
6. Over 40% of pregnant women worldwide are affected by anemia. Theytend to produce 20-30% more blood during this time to be able toprovide the necessary amount of oxygen for their baby, yet,struggle to maintain a healthy red blood cell count and hemoglobinlevels.
7. Vegetarians are more prone to anemia than non-vegetarians as a lotof iron is consumed through beef, chicken, pork, and shellfish.Research showed that 60% of vegetarian women are anemic. It isimportant to maintain a healthy diet and take the right supplementsas a vegetarian.
8. Anemia has a hidden benefit! Anemic individuals are less prone tothe development of infections as bacteria draws strength from ironto grow and multiply in our bodies.

Anemia can be detected with a single blood test and can be treated a numberof ways depending on how severe the deficiency is. Mild to moderate casescan be treated with iron supplement pills and severe cases can be treatedwith a blood transfusion. Iron deficiencies are more common than we think,thus, it is wise to get regular check-ups and treat yourself before thingsget too severe.