Iron Deficiency Day on Nov 26 to raise awareness

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 26 (Bernama) -- Iron Deficiency Day takes place every year on Nov 26 – raising awareness, highlighting significant impact and helping people recognise the symptoms.

Not recognising the symptoms is often the biggest contributor to not seeking and receiving a diagnosis. The new Iron Deficiency Day Symptom Checker will use animations to elucidate the effects of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anaemia in order to educate people in recognising the condition.

This is according to a statement from Vifor Pharma Group a global pharmaceuticals company which aims to become the global leader in iron deficiency, nephrology and cardio-renal therapies.

The statement said iron deficiency presents in one-third of the world’s population. It is most prevalent in premenopausal women, pregnant woman and children under five years of age.

In Europe for example, iron deficiency affects up to 33 per cent of pre-menopausal women, up to 77 per cent of pregnant women and up to 48 per cent of children.

While the effects are differ from person to person, but they can be linked to an overall decline in general health and well-being.

Even without anaemia, iron deficiency can be debilitating, exacerbate an underlying chronic disease and lead to increased morbidity and mortality. If the condition develops, common symptoms include fatigue, pale skin, brittle nails, craving non-food items such as dirt, clay and ice and an inability to concentrate.

Iron is required throughout the body. It is essential for the production of red blood cells and ensuring that the heart and skeletal muscles can function effectively.

Iron also plays a vital role in fighting off infections and illness, maintaining energy levels and normal brain function. The World Health Organization states that iron deficiency can reduce physical work output by 30 per cent.

-- BERNAMA