Journal of Infertility and Reproductive Biology

ISSN: 2310-7588

The latest research in infertility and reproductive medicine from across the world

Maternal and Childhood Iron Deficiency: Clinical Implications and Global Trends in Anemia Prevalence

Published date: Sep 20 2025

Journal Title: Journal of Infertility and Reproductive Biology

Issue title: Journal of Infertility and Reproductive Biology: Volume 13, Issue 3

Pages: 120 - 128

DOI: 10.18502/jirb.v13i3.19258

Authors:

Saffa ZamanDepartment of Internal Diseases No. 1, West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University, Aktobe

Amrender SinghDepartment of Internal Diseases No. 1, West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University, Aktobe

Kumar SunnyDepartment of Internal Diseases No. 1, West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University, Aktobe

Ayush Sharadchand DugadDistrict Civil Hospital, Nashik, Maharashtra

Reni Manish KumarGovernment General Hospital, Nizamabad, Telangana

Raisa A. Aringazinaraisa_aringazina@mail.ruDepartment of Internal Diseases No. 1, West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University, Aktobe

Soudabeh SabetianInfertility Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz

Abstract:

Anaemia remains a global public health challenge, characterized by low haemoglobin levels or reduced red blood cell count, leading to impaired oxygen delivery to tissues. It disproportionately affects vulnerable groups, including young children, pregnant and postpartum women, and those of menstruating age. In 2023, global anaemia prevalence affected 30.7% of women aged 15–49 and 39.8% of children aged 6– 59 months. Major aetiologies include nutritional deficiencies (particularly iron, folate, and vitamin B12), infections, chronic diseases, inherited haemoglobin disorders, and chronic inflammation. Anaemia contributes significantly to maternal and child mortality, impaired cognitive and physical development in children, and reduced productivity in adults, perpetuating social and economic burdens. Although the World Health Organization advocates multi-sectoral strategies—such as dietary diversification, micronutrient supplementation, and addressing underlying determinants like infectious diseases and gender inequities—global progress remains insufficient to meet the 2030 target of a 50% reduction in anaemia prevalence. This review synthesizes current evidence on the prevalence, causes, and clinical consequences of iron deficiency and anaemia, with a focus on maternal and child populations. By analysing data from WHO, UNICEF, and peer-reviewed literature, we examine the biological role of iron, impacts of deficiency on health outcomes, and evolving intervention strategies. Special emphasis is placed on updated haemoglobin cut-offs, nutritional guidelines, and regional epidemiological trends—including data from Central Asia and low-income countries—to inform future public health initiatives and clinical practice aimed at reducing the global burden of anaemia.

Keywords: anemia, pregnancy, prevalence, hemoglobin, treatment, prevention

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