Anemia's Causes
Anemia is a condition in which a person does not have enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to the body's tissues. There are many types of anemia, each with its own cause. The most common cause of anemia is a deficiency of iron, but other potential causes can include vitamin deficiencies, chronic illnesses, and genetic disorders.
Iron Deficiency Anemia
Iron deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia, and it occurs when the body does not have enough iron to produce enough healthy red blood cells. Iron is an important component of hemoglobin, which is the protein in red blood cells that helps carry oxygen throughout the body. Iron deficiency anemia can be caused by inadequate dietary intake of iron, blood loss, or an inability to absorb iron from the diet. Common causes of blood loss can include heavy menstrual bleeding, bleeding ulcers, and gastrointestinal bleeding.
Vitamin Deficiency Anemia
Vitamin deficiency anemia is caused by a lack of certain vitamins that are necessary for healthy red blood cells. The most common vitamins involved in this type of anemia are folate and vitamin B12. Both of these vitamins are essential for the production of red blood cells and a deficiency can lead to anemia. Vitamin deficiency anemia can be caused by inadequate dietary intake of these vitamins or a problem with the body's ability to absorb them.
Chronic Illness Anemia
Some chronic illnesses can cause a decrease in red blood cells and lead to anemia. This type of anemia is usually caused by an underlying medical condition that affects the body’s ability to produce red blood cells or by medications used to treat the condition. Some common chronic illnesses that can cause anemia include kidney disease, cancer, and HIV/AIDS.
Inherited Anemia
Inherited anemias are caused by genetic defects that affect the production or function of red blood cells. The most common inherited anemias are sickle cell anemia and thalassemia. These conditions are caused by mutations in genes that are involved in the production of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
