Iron Deficiency Anemia and Ischemic Stroke in Young Adults.

BACKGROUND

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is the most common cause of anemia and is linked to higher arterial stroke risk in children, but its effect in adults remains unclear.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study examining the prevalence of IDA in young adults with and without ischemic stroke.

RESULTS

We found that the prevalence of IDA was five times higher in patients with ischemic stroke than those without stroke (5% vs. 1.05%).

CONCLUSION

IDA independently increased the odds of an ischemic stroke by 39% (p < 0.001). Given the global burden of IDA, effective screening strategies are necessary.