In Greek, the word anemia means “without blood.” The description is apt enough, because although people with anemia aren’t completely “without blood,” the condition develops when there aren’t enough healthy red blood cells in the body. Symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue, dizziness, headaches, and pale skin, occur because tissues aren’t receiving sufficient amounts of oxygen. The most common blood condition in the United States, anemia affects some 3.5 million people. Women and those with chronic diseases are at a higher risk for having the condition.

Although more than 400 different types of anemia exist, there are really three main culprits—a loss of blood, a decrease or defect in red blood cell production, and the destruction of red blood cells. The most common form is the result of an insufficient amount of iron in the body. Without iron, the bone marrow can’t produce enough hemoglobin for red blood cells. Along with this mineral, the body also requires vitamin B12 and folate to manufacture red blood cells. In some cases, people may have an intestinal disorder or other problem that interferes with B12 absorption; this condition is called pernicious anemia.

Less common are chronic diseases that interfere with the growth of red blood cells, such as cancer, kidney failure, and bone marrow diseases. One genetic cause, which affects mainly those of African descent, is called sickle-cell anemia: Instead of a round, disklike shape, the red blood cells adopt a crescent form and die prematurely.

To diagnose anemia, physicians usually run a series of tests, including a complete blood count to assess the number and type of red blood cells. Treatments depend on the cause and can vary from something as simple as taking a vitamin B12 or iron supplement to receiving a blood transfusion.

ADDITIONAL FACTS

  1. Some 25 percent of women, nearly half of pregnant women, and 3 percent of men suffer from iron-deficiency anemia.
  2. In the case of iron-deficiency anemia, red blood cells appear paler and smaller than normal.
  3. Because meat is a major source of iron and vitamin B12, vegetarians and vegans are more likely to be anemic.