Racial Disparities in Anemia Screening Among Pregnant Women
Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) during pregnancy is prevalent in the US, with a rate of 18%. This study aims to investigate the screening practices for anemia among pregnant women at the University of Michigan (UM) and explore potential racial disparities in these practices.
Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Key Cause of Iron Deficiency
Heavy menstrual bleeding is the most common cause of iron deficiency (ID) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in reproductive-aged women, significantly affecting their quality of life. These conditions are often normalized by society and healthcare providers, leading to underdiagnosis and inadequate treatment. The adverse impacts of bleeding and ID/IDA include diminished cognitive function, increased work and school absenteeism, and presenteeism. Furthermore, evidence suggests that ID in early pregnancy can negatively affect fetal neurodevelopment, resulting in lasting cognitive and psychological disorders.
Anemia Prevalence High Among Women and Girls: Urgent Need for Better Screening
Anemia, a common blood disorder affecting millions, is particularly prevalent among women and girls due to various factors such as menstruation, poor nutrition, and underlying health conditions. A 2023 JAMA study revealed that nearly 40% of nonpregnant US females aged 12 to 21 are iron deficient, with 6% developing iron-deficiency anemia. During pregnancy, these risks increase further. Despite its widespread impact, anemia often goes undiagnosed due to vague symptoms and inadequate screening, leading to severe health consequences if left untreated.
Anemia, Affecting Millions in the US, Varies in Treatment
Anemia is a prevalent blood disorder affecting millions of Americans. It is characterized by insufficient red blood cells or dysfunctional ones, and this leads to low hemoglobin levels and a variety of symptoms like weakness, dizziness, and fatigue. Several conditions can increase the risk of developing anemia, including chronic diseases like kidney disease, cancer, and autoimmune disorders, as well as life stages such as pregnancy. It’s essential to recognize the symptoms early, as many people don’t realize they have anemia until it’s diagnosed through a blood test.
Iron Deficiency and Anemia: A Cycle of Nutritional Deficiency Impacting Women Globally
Iron deficiency (ID) is the most prevalent nutritional deficiency worldwide, significantly affecting women due to increased iron demands during pregnancy and menstruation. This condition often progresses to iron deficiency anemia (IDA), characterized by severe fatigue and cognitive impairments. IDA disproportionately impacts low-income groups who lack access to nutritious food and healthcare.
Iron Deficiency Anemia Impacts 25% Worldwide
Anemia, particularly iron deficiency anemia (IDA), affects nearly a quarter of the global population, driven predominantly by iron deficiency. This condition disproportionately impacts preschool children, pregnant and non-pregnant women, as well as individuals with chronic conditions such as kidney disease, cancer, or those undergoing certain surgeries. Iron homeostasis, critical to managing IDA, relies primarily on regulated absorption rather than excretion, with the peptide hormone hepcidin playing a crucial role by modulating iron uptake based on the body’s needs.
Iron Deficiency Anemia in Pregnancy: High Prevalence and Health Risks in Developing Countries
Iron deficiency anemia is highly prevalent among pregnant women, particularly in developing countries where rates range from 35-75%, and poses significant health risks, including the potential for congestive heart failure and increased maternal and fetal mortality in severe cases.
Limited Progress in Combating Anemia, Multifaceted Approaches Needed
A study noted that, despite efforts, progress in reducing anemia has been slow, with only a slight decrease in prevalence over two decades. The prevalence in women of reproductive age even increased slightly between 2012 and 2019. Anemia’s complexity arises from various causes, including nutritional deficiencies, infections (such as malaria and HIV), inherited blood disorders, and factors related to women’s reproductive biology.
New Strategies Needed to Combat Widespread Anemia, Especially in Women
Researchers analyzed iron deficiency (ID) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA)–common health issues affecting two billion people worldwide, particularly prevalent among women of reproductive age. Traditional treatment has relied on oral iron supplementation, which often yields less-than-ideal results, and there is a growing concern about the number of babies born with ID due to inadequate maternal iron levels.
Disparities in Iron Deficiency Treatment Among Women
In a collaborative fireside chat by the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health (NPWH) and Shield Therapeutics, experts Dr. Wendy Wright and Dr. Lisa Gittens-Williams addressed the diagnosis and treatment of iron deficiency (ID) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in women, emphasizing the existing disparities in care.
