Iron deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia worldwide, occurring when the body doesn't have enough iron to produce hemoglobin — the protein that carries oxygen in blood.
Common Causes:
- Dietary iron deficiency: Poor iron diet — especially in vegetarians or those relying only on rice and bread.
- Chronic blood loss: Heavy menstrual periods in women — the number one cause. GI bleeding (ulcer, hemorrhoids). Postpartum bleeding.
- Poor absorption: Bowel diseases (celiac, Crohn's). Previous gastric surgery. Excessive antacid use.
- Increased demand: Pregnancy and breastfeeding. Rapid growth in children and adolescents.
Why Iron Matters:
Iron is essential for producing red blood cells that carry oxygen to every cell — without it you feel fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
At BEIT TARIQ Center, we diagnose anemia with complete CBC and ferritin testing and treat the root cause, not just symptoms.