Jennifer Mendoza
Research expert covering health, pharma and medtech
Anemia - Statistics & Facts
Anemia is a common blood disorder in which a person does not have enough red blood cells to effectively carry oxygen throughout the body. This can cause symptoms such as fatigue, headache, dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, and heart palpitations. There are many different types of anemia with the cause of the disorder depending on the type. The most common cause of anemia is iron-deficiency, but other types include vitamin B12-deficiency anemia, hemolytic anemia, and sickle cell anemia. Although anemia is often caused by a deficiency in certain vitamins or minerals it may also be caused by chronic diseases such as chronic kidney disease and cancer. Severe chronic anemia may lead to death through heart failure and organ damage, however in most cases the disorder is easily treated. Treatment depends on the type and cause of anemia, but may involve changing diet, taking vitamins and supplements, or treating the underlying condition causing the disorder.
