Iron-Deficiency Anaemia
Iron-deficiency anaemia (IDA) is the most common type of anaemia worldwide. It occurs when the body does not have enough iron to produce sufficient haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. In the UK, IDA is commonly encountered in both primary and secondary care and is often a sign of underlying chronic disease or blood loss. Identifying and managing the underlying cause is just as important as treating the anaemia itself. Causes The most common causes of iron-deficiency anaemia include: Chronic blood loss (e.g., heavy menstruation, gastrointestinal bleeding due to ulcers, polyps, or cancers) Inadequate dietary intake of iron Poor absorption of iron (e.g., coeliac disease, post-gastrectomy,