2 The global prevalence of iron deficiency without anemia remains elusive, although the suggested figure is at least double that of iron deficiency anemia. The estimate is that ∼1.24 billion individuals experience iron deficiency anemia, although with huge variations from low- to high-income countries. 1 Adopting the World Health Organization–recommended cutoff for anemia (Hb <13 g/dL in males, <12 g/dL in females, <11g/dL during pregnancy), a worldwide survey showed that in 2010, anemia still affected one third of the population, with approximately half of the cases resulting from iron deficiency. Risks/benefits of the different treatments should be weighed in a personalized therapeutic approach to iron deficiency.Īccording to the Global Burden of Disease Study 2016, iron deficiency anemia is 1 of the 5 leading causes of years lived with disability burden and is the first cause in women. IV iron, especially last-generation compounds administered at high doses in single infusions, is becoming an effective alternative in an increasing number of conditions because of a more rapid and persistent hematological response and acceptable safety profile. Ongoing efforts aim at optimizing iron salts–based therapy by protocols of administration based on the physiology of hepcidin control and reducing the common adverse effects of oral iron. Special attention is needed in areas endemic for malaria and other infections to avoid worsening of infection by iron treatment. All cases of iron deficiency should be assessed for treatment and underlying cause. The diagnosis of absolute iron deficiency is easy unless the condition is masked by inflammatory conditions. Adaptation to iron deficiency at the tissue level is controlled by iron regulatory proteins to increase iron uptake and retention at the systemic level, suppression of the iron hormone hepcidin increases iron release to plasma by absorptive enterocytes and recycling macrophages. Total-body (absolute) iron deficiency is caused by physiologically increased iron requirements in children, adolescents, young and pregnant women, by reduced iron intake, or by pathological defective absorption or chronic blood loss.

Iron deficiency anemia affects >1.2 billions individuals worldwide, and iron deficiency in the absence of anemia is even more frequent.

Hearts of iron 4 trade influence