According to the World Health Organization, in the world, there are more than 600 million women and 200 million children suffering from anemia. This condition consists of a decrease in red blood cells in the blood, which are responsible for transporting oxygen to the body’s tissues; also known as low hemoglobin level. This time, Dr. César Gallegos, hematologist at Clinica Ricardo Palma, will give us more information on the subject.

Symptoms

• Pallor
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Sleep
• Hair loss and brittle nails (associated with low iron levels)

Causes

There are different causes, among which are:

• Bad nutrition
• Chronic bleeding
• Increased iron requirements or iron malabsorption, as occurs in pregnancy

Risk factors

Among the main risk factors are:

• Women of childbearing age with prolonged or heavy periods
• Pregnant women, children and adolescents with increased iron requirements
• Adults over 65, among others

Prevention

To prevent anemia, it is advisable to have an annual check-up that includes a complete blood count. In the case of young children, a hemoglobin and hematocrit check should be performed every six months.

Likewise, you have to maintain a diet with foods rich in iron such as red meat, liver, blood, dark meat fish, among others.

Dr. César Gallegos
Hematologist at Clinica Ricardo Palma