Inadequate iron levels or factors that interfere with iron absorption may be more common than previously thought, according to research that published in JAMA Network Open.
Investigators assessed iron deficiency among more than 8,000 Americans from data shared through a large nutrition and health survey between 2017-2020. They found that about 14% of adults had absolute iron deficiency — or a depletion or reduction in iron stores. After accounting for traditional factors that can affect iron levels, including anemia, pregnancy, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease, the researchers found that 11% of adults from the survey had that type of iron deficiency. They also found that 15% of adults from the survey had functional iron deficiency, which is marked by normal levels of iron but a reduced ability for the body to use it.
A variety of factors can lead to iron depletion or loss, including bleeding or having underlying health conditions. Others, such as taking certain medications or consuming certain foods, beverages, or supplements in conjunction with iron-rich sources can interfere with the body’s ability to fully absorb it. The authors note these findings support research to identify ways to provide preventive screenings for iron deficiency. The study was partially supported by NHLBI.