Who is at greatest risk for iron deficiency anemia?
Women of childbearing age are often considered at greatest risk for anemia because they lose blood every month through menstruation. Pregnant women have a higher need for iron to maintain their own health and support the health of the baby. Finally, vegetarians who exclude all forms of meat from their diets may need more iron to make up for the lower rate of iron absorption from plant sources. How is anemia treated? Treatment is usually geared toward increasing the amount of oxygen carried by the blood. When anemia is caused by iron deficiency, raising a persons iron intake can help. Iron is found in many foods, and many people take iron supplements. Too much iron can damage the liver.
