Undetected Iron Deficiency Affects Nearly 1 in 3 Americans, Study Says Watch for Early Anemia Symptoms

A new study suggests that nearly one in three people in the United States may have undiagnosed iron deficiency . This condition is a serious public health concern , as it can lead to a variety of health problems such as chronic fatigue , brain fog , and difficulty concentrating .

Iron deficiency , also known as iron deficiency , occurs when the body doesn't have enough iron to produce hemoglobin—a key component of red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. When hemoglobin is low, organs and tissues don't get enough oxygen, which can lead to fatigue and difficulty thinking clearly.

According to researchers, one of the main reasons iron deficiency goes undetected is because symptoms are often mild or mimic other common complaints. As a result, many people do not realize they are actually experiencing mild to moderate anemia , and do not seek medical attention promptly.

This condition is also more common in women of childbearing age , especially those who experience heavy menstruation, as well as in people with a diet low in iron , such as those on a vegan or vegetarian diet without additional supplements.

Health experts urge people to be more alert to the early signs of iron deficiency and to have regular blood tests, especially if they frequently experience:

• Fatigue without any apparent cause

• Pale face

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Irregular heartbeat

• Difficulty focusing or concentrating

With increased awareness and access to health screening, early detection of iron deficiency can be done more effectively. Appropriate treatment such as dietary changes, iron supplementation, or other medical treatments, are essential to prevent long-term impacts on productivity and quality of life.