Folate and Vitamin B12 deficiencies are the most common causes of megaloblastic anemia. Megaloblastic anemia is a type of anemia characterized by the presence of large, immature red blood cells in the bloodstream. Folate and Vitamin B12 are both essential nutrients needed for red blood cell production.
When a person has a deficiency of either folate or Vitamin B12, the body is unable to produce enough healthy red blood cells, so the number of immature red blood cells increases. This leads to megaloblastic anemia. Folate and Vitamin B12 deficiencies can be caused by inadequate dietary intake, malabsorption, or certain medical conditions.
Folate and Vitamin B12 are both required for the proper production of DNA. Without adequate folate and Vitamin B12, the production of red blood cells is impaired, leading to the formation of larger, immature red blood cells. These immature red blood cells have a decreased capacity to carry oxygen, which leads to a decrease in oxygen delivery to the tissues and organs. This results in the symptoms of megaloblastic anemia, which include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, and an increased risk of infection.
Folate and Vitamin B12 deficiencies can be treated with supplementation to restore healthy red blood cell production. However, it is important to identify and treat any underlying causes of the deficiencies. Adequate dietary intake of folate and Vitamin B12 is also important for preventing the development of megaloblastic anemia.