An Overview of the Incidence, Causes, and Impact of Iron Deficiency Anemia in Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is the most prevalent cause of micronutrient anemia globally, accounting for 50% of all anemia cases. It poses a major health burden, reaching epidemic levels in developing countries compared to developed countries. This review aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the incidence of IDA among young adults, particularly females, and children in Saudi Arabia, and to identify its most common causes and risk factors.

METHODS

A systematic search was carried out in electronic databases for publications addressing IDA or iron deficiency in Saudi Arabia.

RESULTS

In Saudi Arabia, the incidence of IDA is alarmingly high, reaching 67% in certain cities, predominantly affecting females, teenager, children, and infants. This high prevalence of IDA has been attributed to nutritional, socioeconomic, and genetic factors.

CONCLUSIONS

IDA is a major health burden in Saudi Arabia that requires urgent attention. The detrimental impact of iron deficiency on health necessitates immediate action to reduce its incidence and long-term complications on quality of life as well as mortality and morbidity related to iron deficiency within the Saudi population.