Anaemia Profile – Postal

Anaemia is either a reduction in the number of red blood cells being produced or of haemoglobin in the blood. This results in reduced levels of oxygen being transported round the body, which is vital for every cell to produce energy for normal bodily functions. Anaemia can stem from a deficiency in iron, which can result from poor absorption or low dietary intake, increased iron requirement (for example during growth or menstruation), and excessive blood loss (possibly due to injury or surgery). Vitamin B12 is also needed to prevent anaemia, which works with folic acid in regulating the formation of red blood cells, and helps to utilise iron.