Anemia is more than just a temporary bout of fatigue—it's a widespread global health concern that affects millions, often without clear symptoms in its early stages. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), anemia occurs when the number of red blood cells or the hemoglobin concentration in the blood drops below normal levels, reducing the body's ability to carry oxygen efficiently. This can lead to constant tiredness, weakness, dizziness, and shortness of breath.

The causes of anemia range from nutritional deficiencies—such as iron, folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin A—to infections, chronic diseases, and genetic conditions. While iron deficiency is the most common culprit, many people remain unaware of the diverse factors contributing to this condition.

In India, anemia is alarmingly prevalent. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) reports that 67% of children (6–59 months), 57% of women (15–49 years), and 52.2% of pregnant women suffer from anemia, making it a major public health concern in this country. Despite these staggering numbers, misconceptions and lesser-known facts about anemia remains.

10 Lesser-Known Facts About Anemia

Anemia is a prevalent yet often underestimated condition that affects millions of people around the world. While its basic definition is widely known—insufficient red blood cells or hemoglobin—the complexities of anemia go far beyond this simple explanation. From its global impact to its varied causes and effects, here are some lesser-known facts that highlight the true scope of anemia and its significance.

1. Prevalence and Global Impact

According to The Lancet's report published in July 2023, anemia affects nearly 2 billion people globally (in 2021), making it one of the most common health conditions. It disproportionately affects populations in developing countries, where malnutrition and lack of access to proper healthcare exacerbate the problem. Approximately 25% of the world's population is anemic, with women and children being the most vulnerable groups. In fact, anemia is a leading cause of maternal and child health issues worldwide.

2. Types of Anemia

While iron deficiency anemia is the most commonly known type, there are actually more than 400 distinct types of anemia, each with different causes and treatments. These can be broadly categorised into three main groups:

Inherited Anemias

Several types of anemia can be passed down through families due to genetic mutations:

• Sickle Cell Anemia: A group of inherited disorders that cause red blood cells to become crescent-shaped, impeding normal blood flow and oxygen delivery.
• Fanconi Anemia: A rare genetic condition affecting multiple body systems, particularly the bone marrow's ability to produce healthy blood cells.
• Diamond Blackfan Anemia: A disorder that severely restricts the bone marrow's red blood cell production capabilities.
• Thalassaemia: A condition where the body doesn't produce sufficient haemoglobin protein, essential for oxygen transport throughout the body.

Nutritional Anemias

These types develop when the body lacks crucial vitamins and minerals:

• Iron Deficiency Anemia: The most common type, resulting from insufficient iron for hemoglobin production.
• Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia: Caused by inadequate B12 intake or absorption problems, leading to reduced red blood cell count and neurological symptoms.
• Megaloblastic Anemia: Occurs due to B12 or B9 (folate) deficiency, resulting in unusually large red blood cells.
• Pernicious Anemia: A specific form where the body cannot properly absorb dietary vitamin B12, leading to megaloblastic anemia.

Anemias Caused by Abnormal Red Blood Cells

These conditions arise from the body's inability to produce healthy red blood cells in sufficient quantities:

• Aplastic Anemia: Results from stem-cell deficiency in bone marrow, leading to insufficient blood cell production.
• Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia: Occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys red blood cells.
• Hemolytic Anemia: Develops when red blood cells break down faster than the body can replace them.
• Macrocytic Anemia: Characterised by unusually large red blood cells.
• Microcytic Anemia: Features smaller than normal red blood cells.
• Normocytic Anemia: Marked by low red blood cell count and below-normal hemoglobin levels.
• Sideroblastic Anemia: Produces abnormal red blood cells while causing excess iron accumulation in the body.

3. Symptoms Beyond Fatigue

Whilst anemia is often associated with fatigue, its symptoms can vary significantly between individuals and may progress in severity if left untreated. Many people with mild anemia initially experience no noticeable symptoms, making regular screening particularly important for early detection.

Early Warning Signs:

• Persistent tiredness and weakness.
• Decreased appetite.
• Frequent headaches.
• Difficulty concentrating and irritability.
• Numbness or tingling sensations in hands and feet.

As anemia progresses, more severe symptoms may develop:

• Dizziness and light-headedness.
• Bluish tinge in the whites of the eyes.
• Brittle or weak fingernails.
• Pale or jaundiced skin.
• Reduced libido.
• Shortness of breath, particularly during physical activity.
• Impaired cognitive function.
• Cold hands and feet.

These symptoms can significantly impact one's quality of life, affecting everything from daily activities to work performance. For pregnant women, untreated anemia may lead to complications during pregnancy. Additionally, severe cases can strain the heart, as it must work harder to distribute oxygen throughout the body.

The varied nature of these symptoms, combined with their gradual onset, makes regular screening crucial. Modern non-invasive screening methods have made it easier than ever to monitor hemoglobin levels regularly, allowing for early detection and treatment before symptoms become severe.

4. Early Detection and Screening

Modern screening methods have made it easier than ever to detect anemia early. Non-invasive devices like EzeCheck can now measure hemoglobin levels quickly and painlessly, enabling:

• Regular monitoring without the need for blood draws.
• Immediate results for faster intervention.
• More frequent screening in vulnerable populations.
• Better compliance with monitoring protocols.
• Reduced healthcare costs.

5. Nutritional Causes

While iron deficiency is the most common cause, anemia can also be triggered by nutritional deficiencies in other essential vitamins, including vitamin A, folate, and vitamin B12. These nutrients are vital for the production of hemoglobin and red blood cells. A well-balanced diet is crucial for preventing and managing anemia, making nutritional education a key factor in reducing its prevalence.

6. Hidden Causes

Anemia isn’t always a result of diet or nutrition. It can also be caused by underlying medical conditions, including:

• Chronic diseases (such as cancer, kidney disease, or autoimmune disorders).
• Infections.
• Blood loss due to surgery, trauma, or gastrointestinal bleeding.

These conditions can interfere with the body’s ability to produce healthy red blood cells or lead to their premature destruction. Identifying the root cause is essential for effective treatment.

7. Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing anemia is relatively simple with a blood test that measures hemoglobin levels or a non-invasive screening. Once diagnosed, the treatment will depend on the underlying cause:

• Iron supplements or changes in diet for iron-deficiency anemia.
• Vitamin supplements for vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies.
• Medications or treatments targeting chronic diseases or infections.

With the right intervention, anemia can often be effectively treated or managed.

8. Preventability

Despite its widespread nature, anemia is largely preventable. With proper nutrition, public health education, and early screening, the incidence of anemia can be significantly reduced. Governments and organisations around the world are increasingly focusing on prevention efforts, including iron-fortified foods, prenatal care, and widespread health screenings.

9. Socioeconomic Factors

Anemia disproportionately affects low-income populations due to factors like limited access to nutritious food, clean water, and adequate healthcare services. These socioeconomic disparities exacerbate the problem, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Addressing these inequities is crucial for tackling anemia on a global scale, as improving access to care and nutrition is key to prevention.

10. The Role of Menstruation and Pregnancy

Women face unique challenges in preventing and managing anemia due to factors like heavy menstrual periods and the increased iron requirements during pregnancy. These physiological conditions can deplete iron stores, leading to anemia if not properly managed. Targeted interventions, including iron supplementation and prenatal care, are essential to support women’s health throughout their life stages.

Conclusion

Anemia may seem like a straightforward condition, but its global impact and varied causes highlight the need for increased awareness and proactive measures. Modern screening technologies, particularly non-invasive solutions, have made it easier than ever to monitor and detect anaemia early. Whether it's a matter of improving nutrition, addressing underlying health conditions, or providing targeted interventions for vulnerable populations, tackling anemia is crucial for improving global health outcomes. By understanding these lesser-known facts and embracing new screening technologies, we can nurture better prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies for anemia, ensuring healthier lives for millions worldwide.