Clinical Nutrition

Lesson 7:Anemia

Introduction

Iron deficiency anemia is the most prevalent micro nutrient deficiency in the world. It affects more than 2000 million people in both developing and developed countries. Young children and pregnant women are the most affected group with a global prevalence of 40% and 50% respectively. Indian studies show over 65% prevalence among preschool children (Seshadri, 1994). Anemia is a public health problem in India with up to 70% of pregnant women being anemic. Nutritional anemia is most commonly caused by a deficiency of iron.