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A new study published in JAMA Network Open reveals that nearly one-third of U.S. adults may have low iron levels, a condition that can lead to health issues ranging from fatigue to more severe complications like heart failure. Researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston found that while 7% of U.S. adults suffer from anemia, an even larger portion of the population may be facing less severe iron deficiencies that still pose significant health risks.
The study analyzed data from over 8,000 adults who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2017 to 2020. Results showed that 14% of participants had absolute iron deficiency, meaning their bodies lacked adequate stored iron. Additionally, 15% had functional iron deficiency, where the body has enough stored iron but struggles to use it efficiently.
Iron Deficiency: A Growing Health Concern
Iron is an essential mineral that the body primarily obtains from food. It plays a crucial role in producing hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. When iron levels are low, the body’s ability to deliver oxygen is compromised, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
The research highlights that iron deficiency can contribute to several health conditions. Besides anemia, it has been linked to restless leg syndrome, cognitive difficulties, decreased physical performance, and heart failure. These conditions can significantly diminish a person’s quality of life, yet iron deficiency often goes undiagnosed unless specific symptoms prompt testing.
“This is a common yet underappreciated public health problem,” said Dr. Leo Buckley, one of the study’s authors. “What’s unique about our study is we were looking at regular people who would not otherwise have been screened or tested.”
Challenges in Diagnosing Iron Deficiency
Routine physical exams typically do not include iron level checks unless a patient presents symptoms or risk factors. Blood tests to measure iron levels can cost around $60 without insurance, making early diagnosis difficult for many. Given the prevalence of iron deficiency, the study calls for greater awareness and more routine screenings, particularly for individuals showing early signs of deficiency.
Treatment and Prevention
Treating low iron levels often involves dietary changes to increase iron intake or the use of supplements. Foods rich in iron include red meat, leafy green vegetables, beans, and fortified cereals. Iron supplements, available in oral and intravenous forms, should only be taken under a healthcare provider’s supervision, as excessive iron can lead to toxicity and other complications.
This research underscores the need for public health efforts to address iron deficiency and prevent its far-reaching health impacts. Greater attention to this under-recognized issue could improve health outcomes and quality of life for millions of Americans.
