Anaemia: Not just iron deficiency

Know what can cause low haemoglobin, and how to recognise the signs

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A MOST COMMON belief is that anaemia is caused by iron deficiency. But there are several other factors causing anaemia.

Dr Rakesh Gupta, senior consultant, Internal Medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, says: "While iron deficiency is the most widely known cause of anaemia, it is not the only one. Anaemia can occur due to several other reasons that affect the body's ability to produce healthy red blood cells or maintain adequate hemoglobin levels. Deficiency of essential nutrients such as vitamin B12 and folate is a common cause, particularly in people with poor dietary intake or absorption problems. Chronic illnesses like kidney disease, cancer, autoimmune conditions, or longstanding infections can also lead to anaemia. Certain inherited blood disorders such as thalassemia and sickle cell disease are additional causes. Blood loss from heavy menstrual cycles, gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, or surgeries can also reduce hemoglobin levels over time. In some cases, bone marrow disorders such as aplastic anaemia affect the body's capacity to produce blood cells. Treatment differs depending on the reason behind the anaemia."