Anemia Risk Factors and Complications

Risk Factors for Anemia

• Having a history of certain infections, blood diseases, and autoimmune conditions increases the risk of anemia.
• Drinking too much alcohol, being around toxic chemicals, and taking some medicines can affect red blood cell production and lead to anemia.
• People over 65 are at increased risk of anemia.

Complications of Anemia

• Severe tiredness can make it impossible to do everyday tasks.
• Pregnant people with folate deficiency anemia may be more likely to have complications, such as premature birth.
• Anemia can lead to heart problems, including a rapid or irregular heartbeat, enlarged heart, or heart failure.
• Some inherited anemias, such as sickle cell anemia, can lead to life-threatening complications.
• Losing a lot of blood quickly can cause severe anemia and can be fatal.

Prevention

• Eating a healthy diet may prevent iron deficiency anemia and vitamin deficiency anemias.
• Foods rich in iron include beef, beans, lentils, iron-fortified cereals, dark green leafy vegetables, and dried fruit.
• Foods rich in folate include fruits, fruit juices, dark green leafy vegetables, green peas, kidney beans, peanuts, and enriched grain products.
• Foods rich in vitamin B-12 include meat, dairy products, and fortified cereals and soy products.
• Foods rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits, peppers, broccoli, tomatoes, melons, and strawberries, which also help the body take in iron.