Anemia: Types, Causes and Treatment

Anemia is a reduction in red blood cell count or hemoglobin below normal, affecting over 1.6 billion people globally. It is not a disease itself but a sign of an underlying condition that must be identified.

The main types include iron deficiency anemia (most common worldwide), vitamin B12 and folate deficiency, hemolytic anemia, aplastic anemia, and anemia of chronic disease. Each has distinct causes and treatments.

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Treatment depends entirely on the cause. Iron deficiency requires supplementation; B12 deficiency requires injections or oral B12; severe cases may require blood transfusion.

All anemia should be properly diagnosed before treatment. Blood tests including CBC, iron studies, B12, folate, and reticulocyte count guide appropriate management.

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