90 per cent of young Indian women suffer from iron deficiency: Doctors

New Delhi, February 25

Iron deficiency is a widespread issue among young women, affecting around 90 per cent in India, said doctors on Sunday, calling the need for timely detection of the condition.

Many women experience low iron levels without realising it, often attributing symptoms like fatigue and weakness to other causes.

Iron deficiency is a common nutritional shortfall that occurs when the body doesn’t have enough iron to support its functions.

This essential mineral plays a crucial role in transporting oxygen throughout the body, maintaining healthy red blood cells, and supporting overall energy levels.

Without adequate iron, individuals may experience fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and impaired cognitive function.

“Iron deficiency among young women is a growing concern that is often overlooked. Despite efforts to promote healthy eating and supplementation, 90 per cent of young women still struggle with insufficient iron levels,” National Technical Head and Chief Pathologist Rajesh Bendre of Apollo Diagnostics told IANS.

He said factors such as menstrual blood loss, restrictive diets, and heavy reliance on processed foods are behind the rise in iron deficiency among women.

Further the doctor noted that the lack of education about iron-rich food sources and dietary requirements exacerbates the problem.

“It is crucial to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining adequate iron levels and provide accessible resources for proper nutrition education,” he said.

Many pregnant women also suffer from iron deficiency, leading to low haemoglobin, anaemia, and its associated symptoms such as pale skin, the expert said.

“Iron deficiency in many pregnant women is a pressing concern that can have far-reaching consequences. Beyond the immediate health risks to the mother, such as anaemia and fatigue, iron deficiency during pregnancy can also hinder foetal development. Inadequate iron levels in expecting mothers may increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight, which can impact a child’s long-term health and cognitive development,” Bendre said.

Addressing iron deficiency in pregnant women goes beyond simply supplementing with iron pills. Experts should educate women about the importance of regular prenatal check-ups to monitor their iron levels throughout pregnancy, enabling timely intervention if deficiencies arise.